'We Are Champions' – Ex-African POTY Ikpeba Sends Bold Warning to Super Falcons' WAFCON Rivals

Former African Player of the Year (POTY) Victor Ikpeba has issued a confident warning to rival teams ahead of the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), declaring that Nigeria's Super Falcons remain the team to beat on the continent, All Nigeria Soccer reports.

The legendary ex-Monaco forward and Olympic gold medalist firmly backed the nine-time African champions to assert their dominance when the tournament kicks off in July. Despite the rapid development and rising competitiveness of women's football across Africa, Ikpeba emphasized that the weight of history and unmatched pedigree firmly rest on Nigeria's shoulders.

"People shouldn't forget that we are the giants of Africa when it comes to women's football," Ikpeba asserted. "We are champions. Yes, teams like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia have bridged the gap and will pose a challenge, but when the tournament starts, the Super Falcons know how to win. The rivals should be worried about us, not the other way around."

The Super Falcons, under the leadership of captain Rasheedat Ajibade and bolstered by world-class talents like Paris FC goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, are drawn into a highly competitive group alongside Zambia, Egypt, and Malawi.

While recent discussions surrounding the team's preparation and scheduling have sparked debate within the domestic football ecosystem, Ikpeba’s rallying cry serves as a definitive reminder of Nigeria's elite status. His comments lay down the marker for the rest of the continent, making it clear that the Super Falcons will fly into the tournament with the singular focus of reclaiming their African crown.