Soccer
Nigeria’s midfield dynamo Jennifer Echegini says she is “ready to make history” as she gears up for her first-ever appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), determined to help the Super Falcons reclaim their continental crown, Soccernet.ng reports.
Echegini, 24, is heading to Morocco on the back of a brilliant season with Paris Saint-Germain.
The former Juventus midfielder believes this year’s tournament, which kicks off on July 5 in Rabat, is about more than football — it’s about pride, pressure, and preserving Nigeria’s legacy.
The Netherlands-born star, who has already featured at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and qualified for the 2024 Olympics, is bracing for the electric atmosphere and emotional weight of continental competition.
“It’s very special,” Echegini told CAFOnline.
“I’ve been in major international competitions, but I haven’t played in an WAFCON yet. This will be my first time, and I’m very excited. I watched the last edition two years ago and already thought: “One day, it’ll be my turn.” Now that moment is here.
“It’s a different atmosphere, a different energy. Representing my country on the African continent is a huge honor. The Women’s AFCON is about history, culture, emotion. I can’t wait to live it from the inside.”
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Echegini sends WAFCON warning as Nigeria eye record-extending 10th title
The Super Falcons are nine-time champions of Africa but haven’t lifted the trophy since 2018.
With South Africa breaking Nigeria’s dominance in 2023, the pressure is back on for the reigning queens of African football to prove their mettle.
“We live with it,” Echegini said.
“The pressure has always been there. When you wear the Nigerian jersey, you know the expectations are sky-high. But that’s a good thing, really. It’s those standards that shape who we are.
“Nigeria has won this competition multiple times. As the new generation, it’s our duty to carry on that tradition. So yes, there’s pressure. But everyone—the fans, the staff, us—wants the same thing: victory.”
Echegini heads into the tournament in scintillating form.
In 20 appearances for PSG across all competitions this season, she scored seven goals and provided four assists, helping her side finish second behind Lyon in the French Division 1 Féminine. She also featured twice in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
With 11 caps and two goals for Nigeria, her role within the national team continues to grow. She is widely regarded as one of the most exciting talents in African football.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been drawn in Group B, alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. The former champions will open their WAFCON campaign against Tunisia, hoping to take a crucial step toward a historic 10th title.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.
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