Super Falcons' Jollof Derby vs Ghana cancelled, denying final WAFCON tune-up
The Super Falcons' pre-WAFCON friendly against Ghana's Black Queens, dubbed the 'Jollof Derby', was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. The match was set for Saturday, July 18 at Casablanca's Stade El Arbi Zaouli but was called off Friday evening per NFF statement.
This cancellation denies both teams a crucial final tune-up before the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations starts July 19 in Morocco. The match held historical significance as a renewal of the fierce rivalry - Nigeria had beaten Ghana in the inaugural 1998 WAFCON final they hosted.
Despite the setback, Super Falcons continue preparations in Morocco with stars like Asisat Oshoala, Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rasheedat Ajibade in camp. They opened training at Stade El Arbi Zaouli on Tuesday under coach Justine Madugu. Nigeria, defending champions and Africa's most successful women's team after reclaiming the 2025 title, open title defence vs Malawi on July 28 in Rabat. The top four finishers qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
With the Jollof Derby cancelled, how should the Super Falcons adjust their final preparations - intensify training camps, arrange alternative friendlies, or trust their current camp preparations in Morocco?