WAFCON 2026: Ajibade Laments Super Falcons’ Disappointing Outing

Super Falcons captain RasheedatAjibade has expressed her disappointment following Nigeria’s poor performance at the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Nigeria were eliminated in the quarter-finals after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses. The disappointing result ended the Super Falcons’ hopes of winning another African title.

Nigeria also missed out on qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The Super Falcons needed a strong result against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana, but a 2-1 defeat ended their hopes of securing a place in the inter-confederation playoffs.

Ajibade said the team must learn from the disappointment and understand that women’s football in Africa is becoming increasingly competitive. She stressed that Nigeria can no longer depend only on its past success and must work harder to remain among the best.

“To be honest, my biggest lesson is just gratitude. We should be grateful,” Ajibade said after the game against South Africa.

She also warned that the team must not become complacent because other African countries are improving rapidly.

“We should learn not to be lax because the competition is fierce now. We must realize we’re not invincible; we just need to prepare more, get better, and demand more of ourselves individually and collectively.”

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Ajibade’s comments highlight the need for the Super Falcons to improve their preparation, teamwork and individual performances ahead of future competitions.