Ihezuo Backs Super Falcons To Defend WAFCON Crown, Seal 2027 World Cup Ticket

Super Falcons forward Chinwendu Ihezuo has expressed confidence that Nigeria has the quality and determination to retain the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title and secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, despite predicting a more demanding tournament in Morocco.

The 14th edition of the continental championship will take place in Morocco from 26 July to 16 August, with qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup also at stake.

Ihezuo, who plays for Mexican club Pachuca Tuzas, said the competition would be far more challenging than the previous edition because every participating nation would be fighting for a place at the global showpiece.

“This tournament will be tougher, much tougher,” Ihezuo said.

“Last year, there was no FIFA Women’s World Cup ticket to fight for. When the first whistle goes on 26 July, the focus of all the teams will be on the World Cup ticket.

“As defending champions, we cannot afford to be over-confident.

“However, I believe in the team that we have, the togetherness among us, our hard work and the courage that keeps us going. We are not only going for a World Cup ticket but also to retain the trophy.”

The former Nigerian junior international also revealed that she has fully recovered from the injury that kept her out of action and is eager to rejoin the national team.

She said she is ready to answer the Super Falcons’ call as preparations for the tournament gather pace.

“God has been great, and I give Him all the glory. I am now healed and fully recovered. My club is currently in pre-season, but I am ready to fly to Morocco and team up with the Super Falcons to make Nigeria proud,” she added.

Nigeria, the most successful team in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, will be aiming to extend its record by winning an 11th continental title while booking its place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.