By Osasu Obayiuwana BBC Sport Online

Akide says the Nations Cup will remain in Nigeria

Mercy Akide is confident that Nigeria's Super Falcons will keep the Nations Cup trophy for good.

The Falcons are the defending female African champions and won the last two tournaments in 1998 and 2000.

Nigeria hosts this year's championship and the team intends to make the most of its home support.

"After winning the last two competitions, we want to win this tournament and ensure that the trophy stays in Nigeria for ever," the current African Player of the Year told BBC Sport Online.

"Our supporters expect nothing less from us."

Akide is currently preparing with the Nigerian squad in Warri, which hosts Group A matches.

The Falcons begin their quest for a third consecutive Nations Cup title with a match against Ethiopia on Saturday.

"They have not been a big force in African football but it does not mean that we would be underrating them," Akide emphasises.

"We must take every team seriously."

Akide joined the team from the USA, where she plays for San Diego Spirit.

She is confident about Nigeria's Nations Cup chances.

"Since I joined the team, we've had intensive training sessions with our coaches and the old and new players are bonding well.

"Ghana has always been a tough opponent for us but I am sure that we will beat them and go on to win the title once again."