The preparations of the Nigeria women’s national football team for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations have suffered another disruption after the Nigeria Football Federation reportedly cancelled the team’s planned friendly match against Jamaica in the United Kingdom.
Super Falcons of Nigeria
The Super Falcons had been scheduled to face Jamaica in an international friendly as part of preparations for the WAFCON tournament, which begins in July.
The fixture was expected to provide head coach Justine Madugu with an important opportunity to assess players, test tactical adjustments and build momentum ahead of the continental competition.
However, reports indicate that the game will no longer take place after Jamaica, who initially proposed the fixture, reportedly pulled out of the arrangement, forcing the NFF to cancel the match entirely.
Fresh concern for Madugu and Super Falcons
The development represents another frustrating setback for the Super Falcons, who have struggled to maintain consistent international activity in recent months.
Nigeria’s women’s national team have not played a match since March, and the cancellation now means the squad may not regroup until June, barely weeks before the start of the WAFCON tournament.
Super Falcon Coach Justin Madugu and Super Falcons Captain Rashidat Ajibade
That situation leaves Madugu with limited time to properly prepare his players for one of the most important competitions in African women’s football.
The upcoming WAFCON carries extra significance because it will help determine Africa’s representatives for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria, who remain Africa’s most successful women’s national team with 10 continental titles, are expected to challenge strongly once again as they seek to reclaim their dominance on the continent.
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The latest disruption has also renewed concerns among supporters over the handling of the women’s national team.
Many fans believe the lack of regular high-quality friendlies could affect the squad’s rhythm, chemistry and morale heading into a major tournament.
With several African rivals already stepping up their preparations through training camps and international friendlies, the Super Falcons risk entering the competition underprepared if another fixture is not arranged quickly.
Despite the uncertainty, Nigerian supporters will still expect the team to remain among the favourites for the title given the depth of talent available to Madugu.
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The next international window in June could now become crucial for the NFF as they attempt to secure at least one preparatory game before the tournament begins.
