Super Falcons Eye WAFCON Glory as Unpaid Bonus Row Clouds Title Defence

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are counting down to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, but the reigning champions’ preparations have been overshadowed by a familiar off-field problem: unpaid bonuses.

With the tournament just days away, reports indicate the Nigeria Football Federation is yet to settle the prize money owed to the players for their triumph at the 2025 edition. It is a recurring source of friction between Africa’s most successful women’s side and the federation, and one the players will be keen to see resolved before a ball is kicked.

On the pitch, the Falcons remain the team to beat. As continental record holders and defending champions, Nigeria will fancy their chances of another deep run, though a congested field of rising African nations means nothing will be handed to them.

There was less welcome news elsewhere in Nigerian football this week, with Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi ruled out through an ankle ligament injury sustained ahead of Besiktas’ Europa League qualifier. His fitness will be monitored closely in the weeks ahead.

For now, though, all eyes are on the Falcons. Nigerian fans will be hoping the bonus dispute is settled quickly so the team can focus on doing what they do best — winning.