Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade has called on supporters to intensify their backing as the Super Falcons begin the defence of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title against Malawi on Tuesday in Morocco.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Monday, Ajibade underlined that the team has travelled to the tournament with a clear objective: to retain their continental crown and secure qualification for the next FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Atletico de Madrid Femenino forward, who leads Nigeria as captain, stressed that fan support remains a driving force for the squad and urged supporters to maintain – and even increase – their energy as the competition gets under way.
“Our message to our supporters remains the same: they are always there in large numbers and they encourage us tirelessly, whether it’s in the stadium or in the media,” Ajibade said.
“We see their support, their love, and how strongly they push us to win. Because I generally realise that their support was decisive in our last victory. So we want them to show the same energy, or even double it.”
Call for unity and ‘energy’ from the stands
Ajibade, whose side are the most successful team in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations history, insisted that Nigeria’s ambitions in Morocco depend not only on the players and staff but also on the continued backing of fans at home and abroad.
“We need that energy to keep aiming for excellence and to make our nation’s colours shine brightly,” she added.
“We must all work together to achieve this. The message is clear: that they continue to encourage us, to support us and to pray for us. And we will make them proud, as always.”
Nigeria’s meeting with Malawi marks the start of their campaign at the CAN Feminine 2026, where the Super Falcons are seeking to defend the title they currently hold as champions of Africa.
Focus on trophy defence and World Cup qualification
Ajibade made it clear that the squad has come to Morocco with twin targets: lifting the trophy again and confirming their place at the next Women’s World Cup via their performance at the continental finals.
The Super Falcons, widely regarded as one of the powerhouses of women’s football in Africa, will open against a Malawi side aiming to upset the defending champions in their first match of the competition.
While Ajibade did not discuss tactics or team selection, her repeated emphasis on the importance of supporters highlighted how seriously Nigeria’s players value the backing they receive from the fanbase.
As the Super Falcons prepare to step onto the pitch for their opening fixture, their captain’s message is unambiguous: sustained and even heightened support from Nigerians everywhere will be vital if the team is to keep hold of the trophy and secure their route to the global stage once again.
