Amazons of Benin Republic head coach, Abdoulaye Ouzerou, has voiced confidence ahead of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 qualifier against defending champions, Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
Speaking before the doubleheader fixture, Ouzerou said his team would not be intimidated by Nigeria’s past record, citing mental strength as their proposed greatest weapon against the ten-time African champions.
The Super Falcons, who have won the WAFCON title a record 10 times, remain overwhelming favourites to progress. However, Benin Republic view this fixture as an opportunity to measure their growth and possibly pull off a major upset.
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What Benin Republic’s Coach Ouzerou Said
After unveiling his squad for the double-header, the Benin coach said his players were fully prepared for the challenge, even if they lag behind technically and physically.
“We’re going to count on our heart. If you’re physically and technically inferior, you have to compensate mentally.”
“And mentally, we are ready. We’ll rely heavily on that spirit,” Ouzerou said.
Benin Republic Admits Super Falcons is a Threat
Coach Ouzerou acknowledged the vast difference in quality between the two teams but maintained that football is not decided solely on skill or strength.
“There’s no comparison possible physically and technically; we know that, we’re not crazy, but mentally, I believe we can make up for those differences,” he admitted.
Ouzerou believes his team’s determination and discipline could inspire a surprise result against a continental dominating Super Falcons.
Benin Republic will host the first leg on Thursday, October 23, at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, while the return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
