Super Falcons to play Senegal in double WAFCON 2026 warm-up friendlies at Remo Stars Stadium

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured a two-match friendly series against Senegal next month, with both games set to be played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State. The fixtures, scheduled for Friday, June 5 and Monday, June 8, form part of the team’s preparation programme for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), to be held in Morocco later this year.

The Senegal dates were arranged after Nigeria’s previously planned friendly against Jamaica fell through. The Jamaica Football Federation had confirmed that logistical and administrative challenges made it impossible for the Reggae Girlz to fulfil the proposed fixture, which had been scheduled to take place in England. Following that cancellation, the Nigeria Football Federation moved promptly to identify an alternative opponent and keep the Super Falcons’ preparation schedule on track.

Coach Justine Madugu will use the two games against Senegal to evaluate his squad options and refine the tactical approach he intends to deploy at the continental tournament. Maintaining a consistent run of competitive preparation matches has been a noted challenge for the Super Falcons in recent months, with Madugu previously acknowledging difficulties in arranging friendly fixtures for the side.

Nigeria enters WAFCON 2026 as the competition’s most decorated nation, having claimed the title on ten previous occasions — a record unmatched in the history of the tournament. The Super Falcons will be bidding to extend that tally to eleven in Morocco, and will enter the competition widely regarded as one of the leading contenders.

The draw has placed Nigeria in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt, and Malawi, the latter making their debut appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Zambia, who have developed rapidly into one of the continent’s most formidable women’s football nations, are expected to pose a significant threat within the group and could provide the Super Falcons with their sternest early test of the tournament.

Nigeria are currently ranked 36th in the world in the FIFA women’s rankings, reflecting their standing as one of Africa’s premier sides. The two friendlies against Senegal represent a key window for Madugu to assess depth across his squad and address any tactical or fitness concerns before the WAFCON squad is finalised.