Ajibade insists result is everything as Nigeria launch WAFCON defence against Malawi

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade says Nigeria will judge themselves only on securing three points when they begin the defence of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title against Malawi on Tuesday.

The Paris Saint-Germain forward believes the African champions are fully prepared for their Group C opener and underlined that the players are “highly motivated” to start their campaign with a win.

Speaking at her pre-match press conference on Monday, Ajibade said the mood in camp has been positive, with the squad united around the target of retaining their continental crown.

“The team spirit is high and everybody is focused,” Ajibade said. “We know why we are here and we are ready to take things one step at a time.”

Winning over style

Ajibade made clear that, for Nigeria, the quality of any display at this tournament will be measured by the outcome on the scoreboard rather than by aesthetics.

“A good performance for the Super Falcons will be to win three points, that’s what we think as a good performance for us,” she added.

“Of course you want to think about how you play, how you perform, the tactics, and all of those things but if you dwell and you don’t win, I don’t think that’s going to count for anything in this game and this tournament.”

Her comments underline a pragmatic approach from a Nigeria side that arrive as serial winners and favourites, but who remain wary of the threat posed by emerging nations in the women’s game across Africa.

Captain chasing back-to-back continental titles

Ajibade led Nigeria to a record-extending 10th WAFCON triumph at the previous edition of the competition, when the Super Falcons mounted a dramatic comeback to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final.

The experienced midfielder, who now combines attacking duties at club level with significant leadership responsibilities for her country, will again be at the heart of Nigeria’s efforts as they aim to keep hold of their title.

Victory at this WAFCON would not only strengthen Nigeria’s dominance of the women’s game in Africa but also secure qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, adding extra weight to every group match.

Malawi test opens Group C campaign

Nigeria open their Group C schedule against tournament debutants Malawi, who will be looking to spring an upset in their first appearance at this level.

The Super Falcons then face Zambia on Saturday, 1 August, before rounding off the group phase against Egypt four days later.

With three fixtures in quick succession, Ajibade’s insistence on taking the tournament “one step at a time” reflects the squad’s determination to manage expectations while keeping their focus firmly on the immediate task.

For the captain and her team-mates, that task begins with Malawi – and with making sure their title defence starts, above all else, with three points.