Nigeria’s Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu says his team will not underestimate Malawi ahead of their opening match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s Group C fixture, Madugu emphasizes that Malawi, as well as every other team in the tournament, presents a potential challenge. He frames the match against the debutants—Malawi are described as making their WAFCON debut—as something Nigeria must approach with caution rather than confidence based on past records.

The reports also note Nigeria’s status going into the tournament. Nigeria are the defending champions and are identified as the competition’s record winners, with 10 titles. Madugu’s warning is presented in this context: despite Nigeria’s pedigree, the coach says the team must respect Malawi’s threat and treat the opener as a competitive encounter.

Overall, the sources align on Madugu’s message of preparedness and caution for the Super Falcons’ first game at WAFCON 2026 against Malawi.