Jennifer Echegini has already seen football’s biggest stages. At just 24, the Super Falcons midfielder has featured in both the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games. But this year marks a personal milestone: her debut at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Though new to the tournament, Echegini is no stranger to big moments. Yet, for her, WAFCON is more than just another competition—it’s an emotional and cultural experience she long hoped to be part of.
“I watched the last edition two years ago and thought, ‘One day, it’ll be my turn.’ Now that moment is here,” she said in an interview with CAF Online. “The Women’s AFCON is about history, culture, and emotion. Representing Nigeria on African soil is a huge honour.”
Navigating Expectations with Focus
Nigeria, nine-time champions and perennial favourites, are under constant pressure to perform. Echegini understands what comes with wearing the green and white jersey.
“The pressure has always been there. When you wear the Nigerian jersey, the expectations are sky-high. But that’s what makes us who we are,” she said. “As the new generation, it’s our duty to carry on that tradition.”
While Nigeria’s group-stage draw may appear favourable on paper, Echegini dismisses any notions of easy games.
“No team should be taken lightly. We need to be focused from the first minute to the last. In this kind of tournament, anything can happen.”
Defining Her Role in the Super Falcons
Echegini plays in the heart of midfield, a position that requires both vision and grit. She’s clear about what she brings to the team.
“My role is to create, organise, and also score when I can. I want to support my teammates across all areas of the pitch. Nothing complicated—just doing what I know how to do and being useful.”
Life in Paris and Breaking Barriers
Since joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in mid-2024, Echegini has found herself surrounded by elite talent. It’s a setting that both challenges and inspires her.
“What stands out the most is being able to train every day alongside exceptional players. Some of them I admired on TV growing up, and now I share the pitch with them,” she said.
As PSG’s first African woman signing, Echegini has become something of a trailblazer. She now shares the dressing room with other African players like Mali’s Agueissa Diarra and DR Congo’s Merveille Kanjinga.
“I told them: Believe in yourself. Where you’re from doesn’t define you. What matters is what you do on the pitch. At PSG, we’re all equals.”
She sees PSG’s increasing interest in African players as a hopeful sign for the continent.
“It shows that clubs are starting to take us seriously. Too often, African players are seen as just physical or fast. But we have so much more to offer. This recognition will inspire young girls all over Africa.”
Jennifer Echegini and Michelle Alozie at the 2023 World Cup
Shifting Perceptions of African Women’s Football
Echegini believes things are changing—both on and off the pitch. Increased media coverage, fan interest, and investment are helping reshape the narrative around African women’s football.
“There’s real progress. This tournament has always mattered, but now it’s finally getting the attention it deserves. The more visibility we have, the more the game will grow.”
A Message to the Next Generation
For the many young girls watching her from across the continent, Echegini has one clear message: your dreams are valid.
“I grew up in the Netherlands, the UK, and the US. My journey is different from some of my teammates who grew up in Lagos or Abuja—but that’s the point. No matter your path, you can still reach the top. You set your own ceiling.”
She adds, “Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Work hard, believe in yourself, and go for it.”
Looking Ahead
As WAFCON unfolds, Echegini remains focused on the task at hand: helping Nigeria lift a record-extending 10th title. But beyond trophies, she’s already playing a much larger role—one that inspires hope, reshapes narratives, and opens doors for the next generation of African talent.