Latest News
Super Falcons players report cash stolen from Morocco team hotel before WAFCON 2026 opener
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have reported that several players had money stolen from their rooms at the team’s hotel in Casablanca as they complete preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The incident is said to have taken place at the Marriott Hotel Casablanca, where the African champions are based ahead of their Group C opener against Malawi.
According to Nigerian outlet Soccernet.ng, multiple members of the squad returned to find cash missing from their belongings after leaving their rooms, with some of the hotel’s cleaning staff alleged to have been involved.
Forward Esther Okoronkwo is understood to have suffered the biggest loss, with $700 reportedly taken from her wallet. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade is said to have had $200 stolen.
Veteran defender Osinachi Ohale is reported to have lost $100, while midfielder Halimatu Ayinde also had $100 missing. Joy Omewa is understood to have had $120 taken.
In total, the amount alleged to have been stolen from the affected players is $1,220.
Okoronkwo later confirmed the incident on social media, voicing her anger at how those confronted over the missing cash had responded. The details of that exchange have not been made public.
No official response yet
At this stage, neither the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) nor Marriott Hotel Casablanca has issued a formal statement on the matter.
There has been no confirmation from either party as to whether a formal complaint has been lodged with the hotel management or local authorities, or if any internal or police investigation is under way.
The Super Falcons, however, remain in the same hotel as they prepare for the start of their title defence.
Disruption to WAFCON build-up
Nigeria’s senior women’s side arrived in Casablanca earlier in the week to put the final touches to their build-up for WAFCON 2026.
The nine-time – and defending – African champions warmed up with a friendly victory over Tanzania four days ago as they continued their push for a record-extending 11th continental crown.
Justine Madugu’s team will open their Group C campaign against Malawi on Tuesday, 28 July, at Stade El Rabid.
They will then face Zambia and Egypt in their remaining group fixtures as they attempt to secure another deep run at Africa’s biggest women’s football competition.
Despite the off-field distraction, the expectation within the camp is that the Super Falcons will attempt to draw a line under the incident and concentrate on their performances on the pitch as WAFCON 2026 gets under way.
