The Nigeria Super Falcons are gearing up for their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying doubleheader against the Benin Republic, a crucial hurdle on their path to the continental showpiece. However, they will face this challenge without a key player, star midfielder Jennifer Echegini, who has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Echegini sustained the injury during a French league match for her club, Paris Saint-Germain, and has since been withdrawn from the national squad for both legs of the qualifying tie. As of the latest reports, no replacement has been called up to fill her vital role.

Echegini's absence is a significant blow to the Super Falcons, particularly given her recent heroics. She famously scored Nigeria’s winning goal in the 2024 WAFCON final against hosts Morocco, solidifying her status as a pivotal figure in coach Justine Madugu’s midfield strategies. Despite this setback, Coach Madugu has expressed confidence in the team's capabilities, insisting that the Falcons remain upbeat about their chances of progressing to the next stage of the qualifiers.

The first leg of this critical encounter is scheduled for Thursday, October 23, and will take place at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo. The return fixture is set for Tuesday, October 28, with Nigeria hosting Benin at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta. The Super Falcons' squad features a strong contingent of seasoned players and rising talents. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, also a PSG player, is expected to lead the team, supported by in-form forward Esther Okoronkwo and veteran defender Osinachi Ohale. Other notable players in the camp include goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun, and defender Ashley Plumptre, who recently joined the team. The camp in Lomé has been steadily growing, with 11 players already present and more expected before the final training session.

Across the divide, the Benin Republic national team is brimming with determination, despite facing the record 10-time WAFCON champions. Their head coach, Abdoulaye Ouzerou, has made it clear that his side will not be intimidated by Nigeria’s illustrious history or formidable reputation. Ahead of the first leg, Ouzerou stated, “We’re not afraid of Nigeria. If you’re physically and technically inferior, you must compensate mentally—and mentally, we are ready. We’ll rely heavily on that spirit.” He acknowledged the significant gap in experience and talent between the two squads, admitting, “There’s no comparison possible physically and technically; we know that. But mentally, I believe we can make up for those differences.” While Nigeria remains the overwhelming favorite to advance, Benin sees this qualifying series as a prime opportunity to test their progress and potentially stage an improbable upset against Africa’s most successful women’s football team.