Babajide Eyes WAFCON Glory, says: ‘World Cup Spot Adds Motivation’

Super Falcons forward Rinsola Babajide believes the expanded format of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) will make this year’s tournament in Morocco even more competitive, with the added incentive of World Cup qualification.

The finals, scheduled for 26 July-16 August, will feature 16 teams instead of 12.

Babajide, fresh off winning the Italian Serie A Femminile title with AS Roma, told thenff.com that the change does not alter Nigeria’s mindset as defending champions.

‘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,’ she said.

‘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.’

Babajide, who was part of the squad that reclaimed the WAFCON title in Morocco last year, reflected on her journey as a player shaped by both England and Nigeria.

‘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.’

She added: ‘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.’