Super Falcons head to UK as Nigeria intensify 2026 WAFCON preparations

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will travel to the United Kingdom later this month for a short training tour as preparations continue for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Soccernet.ng reports.

The camp is expected to run from May 23 to 28, with one friendly game likely to be played during the trip, according to SavidNews.

Although the tour falls outside the official FIFA international window, the Nigeria Football Federation has decided to organise the camp to keep the team active ahead of next year’s continental tournament and the qualification race for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The UK programme also comes after a frustrating March international break when the Super Falcons were unable to play the friendly matches initially planned by the federation.

Head coach Justine Madugu is expected to use the camp to look at fresh faces and widen his options before the defence of Nigeria’s continental crown.

Some regular players may miss the UK trip because of club commitments in Europe and elsewhere, but many of them are expected to return for the next FIFA window scheduled between June 7 and 14.

WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons building towards ‘Mission 11'

Nigeria go into the preparations as African champions after reclaiming the WAFCON title in dramatic fashion last summer in Morocco.

The Super Falcons completed a stunning comeback to beat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final in Rabat after trailing 2-0 at half-time. Goals from Ghizlane Chebbak and Sanaâ Mssoudy had placed Morocco in control before Nigeria fought back in the second half.

Esther Okoronkwo started the comeback from the penalty spot in the 64th minute before Folashade Ijamilusi equalised moments later after a strong run and assist from Okoronkwo. Substitute Jennifer Echegini then scored the winning goal in the 88th minute from an Okoronkwo free-kick as Nigeria secured a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.

The triumph also saw Rasheedat Ajibade win the Player of the Tournament award, while Chiamaka Nnadozie was named Best Goalkeeper.

Since lifting the trophy, Madugu has been tasked with leading what many around the team now describe as ‘Mission 11', Nigeria’s push for another African title at the 2026 tournament in Morocco. The Super Falcons have already been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Malawi and Zambia.

The UK tour is expected to help the technical crew improve team chemistry, assess emerging talents and maintain Nigeria’s status as the dominant force in African women’s football ahead of the tournament in July 2026.