By Prosper Mene
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has declared the team’s readiness to reclaim the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the 2024 tournament in Morocco, while issuing a clarion call to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to provide comprehensive support to ensure the team’s success. The statement spotlights the squad’s ambition to secure a record-extending 10th continental crown from July 5 to 26.
Ajibade, speaking on the Super Falcons Show, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and determination to overcome past challenges. “We all understand what’s at stake,” she said, emphasizing the squad’s focus on reclaiming the title last won in 2018. The Super Falcons, nine-time WAFCON champions, are drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, with their campaign kicking off against Tunisia on July 6.
The captain’s comments follow a thrilling 2-0 win against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses in a friendly match on June 3 at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, which boosted team morale.
Ajibade, who scored both goals, hailed the team’s spirit and fan support as critical to their performance. However, she subtly warned the NFF to address longstanding issues, including inadequate welfare and logistical support, which have frustrated players in previous tournaments. “There’s a lot of confidence in camp, and we’re committed to our goal, but we need everything in place to succeed,” she noted.
The Super Falcons’ preparations, dubbed “Mission X” by the NFF, aims to restore Nigeria’s dominance after South Africa claimed the 2022 WAFCON title. The team’s recent friendly against Cameroon, though reduced from two matches to one due to logistical challenges, showcased their strength, with standout performances from players like Rinsola Babajide, Deborah Abiodun, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Head coach Justine Madugu described the win as a “psychological boost” but louded Ajibade’s call for improved support to fine-tune strategies ahead of the tournament.
Ajibade’s leadership has been vital, both on and off the pitch. Her brace against Cameroon and her vocal advocacy for better treatment reflect her growing influence as she prepares to lead Nigeria in Morocco. The 25-year-old, who recently bid an emotional farewell to Atlético Madrid, is also weighing her next career move, with reports linking her to a club in the United States post-WAFCON.
Despite their historical dominance, with 12 consecutive years in the global top 40, the Super Falcons face stiff competition from rising teams like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia. Ajibade, however, remains unfazed, asserting that the squad’s talent and depth can weather any storm. “The Super Falcons is a very big squad and a very talented squad,” she said, addressing the absence of key players like Asisat Oshoala in recent matches.
With a friendly against Portugal looming on June 23, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are concentrating on strengthening teamwork and gaining momentum. Led by Ajibade and buoyed by “Mission X” fan enthusiasm, the team is primed for success if the NFF fully backs their captain’s plea for consistent support.
