Ajibade leads Nigeria against Malawi as Super Falcons start WAFCON defence

Defending champions Nigeria are set to kick off their quest for an 11th Women's Africa Cup of Nations title against tournament debutants Malawi. The Super Falcons, led by coach Justine Madugu, face Malawi in their Group C opener at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.

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We are here to defend our title and secure our qualification for the World Cup. The team is fully prepared and ready for battle.

CAF described the match as a "clash of contrasts," pitting Africa's most successful women's national team against Malawi, who are making their first appearance in the continental finals. Despite Nigeria's dominant history, Madugu stressed the importance of respecting their opponents and approaching the game with full preparation.

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We have deep respect for Malawi. They are a very good team, and we are taking absolutely nothing for granted.

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade highlighted that securing three points is the primary objective, stating that victory is paramount in a tournament setting. "If you play well but don’t win, it is pointless," she said.

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For us, a good performance means taking all three points. That is what really matters in a tournament like this. If you play well but don’t win, it is pointless. We approach every opponent with humility, but our objective is clear.

Malawi, however, is determined to cause an upset. Coach Lovemore Fazili dismissed notions that his team would simply participate, asserting their readiness and capability to surprise. Star sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga are expected to lead Malawi's challenge. Captain Tabitha Chawinga expressed that playing in the WAFCON is a lifelong ambition and urged her teammates to compete without fear or an inferiority complex against Nigeria.

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Getting this far means that we are ready for this match. People may underestimate us but we are a good team, capable of causing an upset. We are not resigned victims.