The road to Morocco begins with a West African derby. Nigeria’s Super Falcons — Africa’s most decorated women’s team — are gearing up for a decisive qualifier against the She-Cheetahs of Benin Republic in the race to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Slated for the international window of 20–28 October, the first leg will see Benin play hosts before the Falcons bring the battle home for a return clash on Nigerian soil.

Led by head coach Justine Madugu, the 10-time WAFCON champions know what is at stake: defend their continental crown, secure yet another ticket to the global stage, and extend their unrivalled dominance with a record 11th title. After conquering hosts Morocco in a dramatic final last year, the Falcons are determined not to let their guard down — anything less than qualification would be unthinkable.

Meanwhile, Benin Republic arrive with confidence. The She-Cheetahs stunned Sierra Leone 5-2 on aggregate in the previous round, winning both legs away from home due to stadium challenges. But now, they face a far greater mountain: a Nigerian squad brimming with stars like Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Esther Okoronkwo — names synonymous with big moments on the African and world stage.

Yet, the stakes stretch beyond Morocco. The 2026 WAFCON doubles as the gateway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with only four direct slots available for Africa. For Nigeria, qualification is not just about pride, but about securing their ticket early and preparing to face the world’s best.

Across the continent, heavyweight clashes also light up the qualifiers. Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses face Algeria’s Lady Fennecs, Senegal lock horns with Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana’s Black Queens battle Egypt in what promises to be a fiery contest.

With just months to go before Morocco 2026, the Super Falcons’ journey begins here — a test of experience, resilience, and the hunger to stay Africa’s queens of football.