The Super Falcons of Nigeria will renew one of African football’s fiercest rivalries when they take on Ghana’s Black Queens in a high-profile international friendly on Saturday, July 18, as preparations intensify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that the encounter will take place at the Stade El Arbi Zaouli in Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 4:00 PM WAT.
With both teams already in Morocco ahead of the continental showpiece, the friendly provides an important opportunity for the coaching staff to assess tactics, fitness, and squad readiness before the tournament gets underway.
Nigeria head into WAFCON 2026 as the defending champions and 10-time African champions, aiming to secure a record-extending 11th continental title. The Super Falcons will begin their title defence against Malawi on July 28, carrying the weight of expectations as Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
Head coach Justine Madugu has assembled a formidable squad blending experienced leaders with exciting emerging talents. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie are expected to spearhead Nigeria’s quest for another continental crown.
Ghana, meanwhile, will approach the fixture full of confidence after recording a 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast in their latest warm-up match. The Black Queens will view the clash with Nigeria as a valuable test ahead of their own WAFCON campaign.
The rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana remains one of the most celebrated in African football. Whether in the men’s or women’s game, meetings between the two West African powerhouses are renowned for their intensity, passion, and competitive spirit.
Although Saturday’s fixture is officially a friendly, both sides will be eager to gain psychological advantage and momentum heading into the tournament, making it a contest that promises plenty of excitement.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will run from July 26 to August 16 across several venues in Morocco, with Nigeria determined to defend the title they successfully won in 2024.
For the Super Falcons, the early arrival in Morocco and a demanding preparation schedule underline the team’s ambition to remain the dominant force in African women’s football.
Nigerian fans will be watching with great anticipation as the Super Falcons begin what they hope will be another historic journey, with #MissionXI firmly in sight.
The clash against Ghana represents more than just a friendly; it is the first major test of Nigeria’s readiness as the Super Falcons set their sights on an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title.
