National Teams
WAFCON 2026: Folashade Ijamilusi determined to ‘shine’ for Nigeria against Malawi
Nigeria forward Folashade Ijamilusi says she is relishing the opportunity to represent Nigeria at her second Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), noting that a chance to play against Malawi will be a dream come true.
The in-form attacker, who has steadily established herself in the national team setup through hard work and consistent performances, is among the players expected to play a key role as Nigeria begin their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
With the Super Falcons opening their Group B campaign against tournament debutants Malawi, the China-based forward believes the 10-time African champions must approach the encounter with maximum concentration despite their status as overwhelming favourites.
Speaking ahead of the crucial opener, the Nigerian forward expressed gratitude to God and the coaching crew for giving her another opportunity to represent the country on the continental stage.
“First of all I thank God for being part of the team, and also I say thank you to the coaches for believing in me and making me part of the team,” Ijamilusi exclusively told NigeriaFootball.ng.
“I’m so excited to be part of the team again in this year’s Woman’s Africa Cup of Nations and this start will really mean a lot to me.”
The former Edo Queens star acknowledged that Malawi possess quality players capable of causing problems but insisted the Super Falcons must treat the fixture with the seriousness it deserves.
According to Ijamilusi, securing all three points in the opening game would provide Nigeria with the perfect platform for the remainder of the tournament.
“Malawi is a very good team, and they also have very good individual players. So our expectation is to approach the game with all seriousness and come out victorious because the victory will really boost our approach towards the second game,” she continued.
Beyond her ambitions on the pitch, the Nigerian forward also used the opportunity to inspire the next generation of female footballers, urging young girls across the country to remain patient, dedicated and committed to their dreams.
Ijamilusi believes persistence and hard work remain the pathway to success, encouraging aspiring players not to be discouraged by setbacks.
“My message to the Young Nigerian girls is to never give up, keep working hard because one day it will be their turn. Thank you,” she added.
Nigeria begin their WAFCON 2026 campaign against Malawi before facing Zambia and Egypt in the remaining Group B fixtures as they chase another continental triumph.
With players like Ijamilusi eager to make their mark, the Super Falcons will hope to start their title defence with a convincing victory and take another step towards lifting an unprecedented 11th African crown.
