We are not afraid of Super Falcons - Benin Coach Ouzerou sends message to Nigeria ahead of WAFCON qualifiers

Head coach of the Amazons of Benin Republic, Abdoulaye Ouzerou, says his side is not intimidated by the prospect of facing Nigeria’s Super Falcons in the final qualifying round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The Benin Amazons will take on the defending champions in a two-legged qualifier, with the first leg scheduled for Thursday at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo.

The return leg will be held at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, on Tuesday, October 28.

Speaking after unveiling his squad for the crucial tie, Ouzerou admitted that while Nigeria holds a clear advantage in physicality and technical quality, his players will depend on their mental toughness and collective spirit to cause an upset.

“We’re going to count on their heart, because if you’re physically and technically inferior, you have to compensate mentally. For me, mentally, they’re ready. We’re going to rely heavily on that mentality,” Ouzerou said.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons, led by coach Justin Madugu, are seeking to qualify for a record-extending 15th WAFCON appearance and defend the title they last won in Morocco.

Benin Republic, on the other hand, are chasing a maiden appearance at the continental showpiece and will need to overcome Africa’s most successful women’s football team to do so.

Super Falcons camp opened on Monday with eight players.