Former Super Falcons star Stella Mbachu has issued a stern warning to Nigeria’s women’s national team ahead of their WAFCON qualifying double-header against Benin Republic, insisting that total concentration will be key if the defending champions are to make a strong start to their title defence.
The Falcons are set to face Benin in the first leg in Togo on Wednesday, before returning home to Abeokuta for the decisive second leg a few days later.
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The two-legged tie marks the beginning of Nigeria’s quest to retain the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title they won in Morocco.
Mbachu, one of the country’s most decorated female footballers, stressed that the opening game away from home will be crucial and urged the players to approach it with the same seriousness and professionalism that has defined the team over the years.
“The first leg is very important,” Mbachu said. “Playing away is always tricky, but if we stay focused and get a good result in Togo, it will make the return leg in Abeokuta much easier.
The girls must not underestimate Benin — in modern football, there are no small teams anymore.”
She also praised the team’s recent cohesion under coach Justin Madugu, adding that the balance of youth and experience in the current squad gives her confidence ahead of the qualifiers.
“With the right attitude and teamwork, I believe the Super Falcons will deliver,” she added. “They must play with the same hunger and passion that brought us success in the past.”
Nigeria’s double-header against Benin will mark their first official outing since being nominated for multiple CAF Awards, with several key players including Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chiamaka Nnadozie in contention for honours.
