Some football enthusiasts have expressed confidence in the Super Falcons despite their opening defeat to Malawi at the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The supporters shared their views in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
The Super Falcons began the defence of their WAFCON title with a surprise 3-2 loss to Malawi and will face Zambia on Saturday at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.
Muhammad Auwall said the defeat was disappointing but expressed confidence that the team would bounce back and qualify from Group C, which also includes Zambia and Egypt.
“It’s really a shocking result, but I still back our girls to go far and even defend the title.
“For me, they are still the team to beat, and I don’t see them not going far even with this shocking result against Malawi,” he said.
Isaac Ngbede attributed the defeat to the team’s sluggish performance, noting that Malawi deserved the victory after playing with greater pace and intensity.
He, however, expressed optimism that the Super Falcons would recover, win their remaining group matches and secure a place in the knockout stage.
“The Malawians were faster and sharper. It was a deserved win for them. But I don’t see the Super Falcons losing two matches in a row in this tournament.
“In fact, I see them winning their remaining matches and qualifying for the next round. Worst-case scenario is they will come second in the group,” he said.
Also speaking, Anike Oye said the defeat should serve as a wake-up call for the defending champions, stressing that stronger performances would be needed in the remaining fixtures.
She noted that the tournament also offers qualification slots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification.
Oye expressed confidence in the experience and quality of the squad, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, adding that the team remained capable of reaching the semi-finals.
“Even if we don’t win it, I am optimistic we will get to the semifinals. So there is no need for Nigerians to panic,” she said.
