Some football enthusiasts have expressed confidence in the Super Falcons despite their loss to Malawi in the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

They stated this in separate interviews in Keffi, Nasarawa State, on Thursday.

The Falcons began the defence of the title they won in 2025 with a shocking 3-2 loss to Malawi.

The Super Falcons will take on Zambia on Saturday at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, at 9:00 p.m.

Muhammad Auwall said that, despite the shocking defeat, he still has confidence in the Super Falcons to qualify for the next level from Group C.

The group has  Zambia, Egypt and Malawi.

“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 said the Super Falcons lost because they looked heavy, adding that the loss will spur them to be more aggressive and brave in their subsequent matches.

“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.

Anike Oye, who expressed confidence in the Super Falcons, said that they have no choice but to improve in their subsequent fixtures.

“I hear there is so much at stake aside from the title. The four semifinalists will qualify automatically for the women’s World Cup coming up in Brazil in 2027.

“For me, this loss is just a minor setback and an eye-opener to the fact that rival teams are becoming more stubborn and formidable.

“Our girls have been in this situation many times in the past, and they overcame it. So for me this tournament will not be different,” she said.

She said the Super Falcons boast of very experienced and quality players, captained by Rasheedat Ajibade.

“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.

 (NAN)