The decisive clash will take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Tuesday.

The Super Falcons enter the match with a 2–0 advantage following a solid performance in the first leg at Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo, last Friday. Goals from Chinwendu Ihezuo and Esther Okoronkwo gave Nigeria a commanding lead. However, Madugu emphasized that despite the cushion, the team cannot afford to take anything for granted.

“We are expecting a tough game from the Beninoise, but we’ll be ready. Our focus is on delivering a strong performance with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the 2026 Women’s AFCON,” Madugu said in a statement issued by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, on Monday. “We want to retain our title and use this as a stepping stone for our World Cup qualification in Brazil in 2027.”

Madugu also cautioned against underestimating Benin, who fielded a number of foreign-based players in the first leg. “The Amazons have about 10 professionals from countries like Germany, Morocco, France, and Equatorial Guinea. They showed quality in the first leg, which proves that in African football, you can’t afford to underrate any opponent.”

Despite the challenge, Madugu is expected to field a largely unchanged lineup. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is set to retain her place in goal, with Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, and Ashley Plumptre forming the defensive line. Midfielders Rasheedat Ajibade, Deborah Abiodun, and Taiwo Afolabi will continue to dictate play, while Ihezuo, Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi will lead the attack.

The coach may also opt to bring in veteran forward Asisat Oshoala, a six-time African Player of the Year, along with Joy Omewa and Kafayat Mafisere as alternative attacking options.

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The match will take place at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, with kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m. The aggregate winner will secure a spot in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, to be held in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026.

The Super Falcons resumed training at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena on Sunday. As 10-time continental champions, they are determined to extend their dominance in African women’s football and secure early momentum for their bid to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Source: Nigeria’s Super Falcons head coach, Justine Madugu, has warned his team to remain focused and avoid complacency as they prepare for the return leg of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON, qualifying match against the Amazons of Benin Republic.

Source: Punch