WAFCON 2026: PSG star gives Super Falcons two secrets to solving defensive problems

The Super Falcons of Nigeria entered the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026) as the favorites, but they have not been entirely convincing so far, Soccernet.ng reports.

​They were placed in a relatively favorable group alongside Zambia, Egypt, and debutants Malawi. However, they shockingly lost 3-2 to the Scorchers in their opening game of the tournament.

​Nonetheless, they saved their blushes in their remaining two matches, beating Zambia and Egypt to finish second in the group. Still, a glaring issue throughout the group stage was their defensive fragility.

​They conceded five goals in three games — against teams they were expected to beat comfortably.

​They let in three goals against Malawi and two against Egypt. Although they kept a clean sheet against Zambia, such numbers are unusual for a team of their quality and pedigree, highlighting notable weaknesses in the backline.

​PSG Star Reveals How Super Falcons Can Stop Leaking Goals

​Having successfully navigated the group stage, the Super Falcons will now face Cameroon in the WAFCON quarterfinals.

​Ahead of the game against the Indomitable Lionesses, PSG and Nigerian midfielder Jennifer Echegini has admitted to the team's defensive frailties and noted that they are actively working to fix them.

​”I feel like the teams we have faced have all gotten better as time and years have gone along,” Echegini told Elegbete TV.

​”But definitely we have to look at ourselves and realize that some of the things that have happened, and some of the goals that have been scored, are quite unusual for us as a team.

​”So we definitely worked on tightening the midfield, figuring out our back line, and other little stuff like that. Just the smaller details that go a long way.”

Cameroon enters this match with momentum, having topped their group with seven points while conceding just two goals.

​According to match predictions, whoever scores first will likely win the fixture. Consequently, it is crucial that Nigeria keep it tight at the back.

​Echegini featured in Nigeria's first two games against Zambia and Malawi, but missed the Egypt fixture due to suspension. She is expected to return to action against Cameroon.