Countdown to WAFCON: Babajide discusses motivation

Ahead of the 14th Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) finals scheduled to take place in Morocco from 26th July to 16th August 2026, Super Falcons’ ace forward Rinsola Babajide expressed her belief that the increase in participating teams this year will only add to the excitement of the tournament. Babajide, who plays for AS Roma in the Italian Serie A Femminile, commented on thenff.com that the transition from 12 to 16 competing nations does not significantly alter the dynamics of the tournament, as the motivation to succeed remains constant for the defending champions.

Babajide stated, "I think it makes it more exciting. We all know that this year’s Women AFCON is also for qualification to the World Cup finals. Of course, we all want to be there. I think it will make it more competitive but for us, the goal remains the same."

According to the forward, the pressure to perform remains high regardless of competing for the continental title or for World Cup qualification. "For us as a team, whether we are playing just to be crowned champions of Africa or for qualification to next year’s World Cup, the pressure is the same as we want to win. The only pressure actually is the one we put on ourselves. We know what we signed up for as professionals and being the defending champions, we want to retain our trophy."

Reflecting on her journey, Babajide credited her development as a player to her early experiences in England and her resilience developed through her time with the Nigerian team. "I’ve been blessed to have the best of two worlds. England helped me develop my game from age-grade football; I am forever grateful for that. I have continued to grow as an experienced player with Nigeria and I do not take this for granted. I have learnt resilience and professionalism in both environments and these make me a better player and a better person."

Babajide emphasized her commitment to the team’s goals, saying, "We know what it takes to win and as a team, we will give it our all in Morocco to retain the trophy. We are all determined to make Nigeria proud in Morocco."