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WAFCON 2026: Jennifer Echegini calls for Nigeria to tighten defence before Cameroon quarter-final
The Super Falcons must address their defensive weaknesses if they are to progress at WAFCON 2026, with PSG and Nigeria midfielder Jennifer Echegini acknowledging that the team is working to correct the problems before their quarter-final against Cameroon.
Nigeria began the tournament as favourites but were far from convincing during the group stage. They were drawn alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi, who were making their first appearance at the competition.
Despite being expected to advance from a relatively favourable group, the Super Falcons suffered a surprise 3-2 defeat by Malawi in their opening match. The result immediately placed pressure on Nigeria to respond in their remaining fixtures.
They did so by recovering with victories over Zambia and Egypt, results which secured second place in the group. However, their progress was accompanied by a significant concern: a defence that conceded too many goals against opponents Nigeria would normally be expected to control.
The Super Falcons allowed five goals across their three group matches. They conceded three against Malawi and a further two in the win over Egypt. Their only clean sheet came against Zambia.
That defensive record is unusual for a side with Nigeria’s quality and pedigree and has exposed weaknesses at the back as they move into the knockout stage.
Echegini played in Nigeria’s first two matches, against Zambia and Malawi, but was unavailable for the final group game against Egypt after being suspended. She is expected to return for the quarter-final against Cameroon.
Cameroon will provide a demanding test. The Indomitable Lionesses topped their group with seven points and conceded only two goals, giving them one of the stronger defensive records among the teams still competing for the title.
Nigeria’s next fixture is therefore likely to be decided by which side manages the key moments more effectively. Match predictions indicate that the team scoring first is likely to win, making defensive organisation particularly important for the Super Falcons.
Echegini has admitted that Nigeria’s defensive frailties have been evident and said the team is actively working to resolve them. Her return could provide a boost as the Super Falcons prepare for a match in which avoiding early errors may be central to their chances of reaching the semi-finals.
The quarter-final will also represent a chance for Nigeria to restore confidence after an uneven group campaign. They have already shown they can respond to disappointment by recovering from the Malawi defeat with wins over Zambia and Egypt.
But their defensive performance against Cameroon will be tested by a side that arrives with momentum and a strong group-stage record. With both teams aiming to continue their WAFCON 2026 campaigns, Nigeria must find greater stability at the back if they are to overcome the Indomitable Lionesses.
