Former Super Falcons assistant coach, Rolandson Odey, has expressed delight over Nigeria’s participation in the WAFU-B Invitational Tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, describing it as a timely and valuable preparation for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
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The invitational competition will feature Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal, and Nigeria, with the Super Falcons heading into the tournament as defending WAFCON champions.
Odey believes the quality of opposition makes the WAFU-B event a proper test for the team ahead of the continental showpiece.
“I’m very, very happy the Super Falcons will be participating in this WAFU-B invitational tournament,” Odey said. “It’s a litmus test for them and a good preparation towards the WAFCON.
We must also remember that WAFCON will serve as a pathway to the 2027 Women’s World Cup, which makes this preparation very important for Nigeria.”
Odey acknowledged that Nigeria recently missed out on the FIFA international window where quality friendly matches were expected, but noted that the WAFU-B tournament adequately fills that gap.
“In terms of preparation, I believe coach Justin Madugu will invite the best players he intends to use for the WAFCON itself.
This is not the time to keep experimenting or bringing in players who may not add value to the championship,” he added.
He further pointed out that matches against regional rivals such as Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal will closely mirror the intensity Nigeria should expect at WAFCON.
“Playing Ghana is like playing South Africa, Zambia, or Morocco. Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal also offer tough opposition. It’s a very good one for us, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it goes.”
The Super Falcons are expected to use the WAFU-B Invitational as a final assessment platform as preparations intensify for WAFCON later this year.
