As the countdown to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations gathers momentum, Super Falcons midfielder Toni Payne has sent a strong message to Nigeria’s continental rivals: the defending champions are heading to Morocco with only one objective; to retain their crown.
For Payne, representing the Super Falcons comes with an unmistakable responsibility. Nigeria’s unrivalled pedigree in African women’s football means expectations are never negotiable, and the Inter Milan midfielder insists the team’s identity as the “Giants of Africa” demands nothing less than another title-winning campaign.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with FIFPRO ahead of the tournament, Payne reflected on Nigeria’s ambitions, the rapid growth of women’s football across Africa, and why defending the WAFCON title has become a mission for the reigning champions.
‘Giants of Africa’ comes with pressure
Nigeria enter the tournament as defending champions and the most successful nation in the competition’s history, having won a record 10 continental titles.
