Head coach of the Benin Republic women’s national team, Abdoulaye Ouzerou, has expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to challenge the Super Falcons of Nigeria in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers.

The Amazons of Benin are set to face the defending African champions in the second qualifying round, with the first leg scheduled for Thursday, October 23, at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo. The return leg will take place on Tuesday, October 28, at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Speaking after announcing his squad, Ouzerou emphasized that his team’s greatest strength lies in their mentality and unity rather than physical dominance or technical prowess.

“We’re going to count on our hearts,” Ouzerou said. “If you’re physically and technically inferior, you must compensate mentally — and mentally, we are ready. That fighting spirit will be our biggest weapon.”

The Benin coach acknowledged the formidable quality of the Super Falcons but insisted that football is not decided on reputation or statistics alone.

“There’s no real comparison physically or technically — we know that, we’re not naïve,” he admitted. “But mentally, we can make up for those differences. We believe in our ability to stand strong and fight.”

Ouzerou also praised the Nigerian team’s experience and record but maintained that discipline, focus, and team spirit could help his side pull off a surprise result.

The clash marks another milestone in the Super Falcons’ quest to defend their WAFCON crown — a title they have won a record ten times — while Benin aim to make a statement by challenging one of Africa’s most dominant women’s football teams.