Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have suffered an unexpected setback after the Super Falcons’ high‑profile warm‑up match against Ghana’s Black Queens was cancelled.
The much‑anticipated “Jollof Derby” had been set for Saturday at the Stade El Arbi Zaouli in Casablanca but was called off because of unforeseen circumstances.
The Super Falcons confirmed the development in a statement posted on their official 𝕏 account on Friday evening, July 17.
“The friendly match between the Super Falcons and the Black Queens planned for Saturday, 18 July 2026, in Casablanca is off due to unforeseen circumstances,” the statement read.
Why the Match Mattered
The fixture was expected to give head coach Justine Madugu a final chance to assess his squad before Nigeria begin the defence of their continental crown. It would also have renewed one of African women’s football’s fiercest rivalries, with Ghana being the side Nigeria defeated in the final of the inaugural WAFCON tournament in 1998.
Nigeria’s WAFCON Pedigree
Nigeria travel to Morocco as defending champions and Africa’s most successful women’s national team, having won a record 10 WAFCON titles. They are aiming to lift an unprecedented 11th crown after being drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia and Egypt. Their campaign opens against Malawi on July 28 in Rabat.
Light‑hearted Banter Ahead of the Opener
Ahead of that opening fixture, a playful exchange between Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala and Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga attracted widespread attention online.
Oshoala said, “Calm, sister, relax. You and Temwa need to calm down.”
Chawinga replied, “Super Falcons need to calm down. Do not give us 5‑0, please. One‑nil is enough.”
Tournament Context
The 2026 WAFCON will run from July 19 to August 8. The four semi‑finalists will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, while the fifth‑placed team will advance to the intercontinental play‑offs.
About the Author
