Key Takeaways
- Super Falcons Head Coach Justine Madugu has named a 25-player squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
- Key figures like captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and veteran forward Asisat Oshoala are included.
- A significant surprise is the omission of influential defender Ashley Plumptre.
- Nigeria, the defending champions, are drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia, and debutants Malawi.
- The tournament, featuring 16 teams for the first time, will be held in Morocco from July 26 to August 16.
- Semi-finalists will secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are gearing up for a monumental challenge as Head Coach Justine Madugu officially unveiled a formidable 25-player squad poised to defend their continental crown at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The highly anticipated tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, will see the reigning champions battle for an unprecedented 11th title.
Squad Unveiled: A Mix of Experience and Emerging Talent
The roster features a blend of seasoned veterans and promising talents, signaling Madugu’s intent to maintain Nigeria’s dominance on the African football stage. Leading the charge will be the inspirational captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose leadership and attacking prowess are crucial to the team’s aspirations. She is joined by the world-class goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, known for her exceptional shot-stopping abilities, and the prolific veteran forward Asisat Oshoala, whose goal-scoring record speaks for itself.
The squad also boasts a strong contingent of experienced campaigners, including the stalwart defender Osinachi Ohale, versatile Jennifer Echegini, dynamic Michelle Alozie, tenacious Christy Ucheibe, creative Toni Payne, clinical Esther Okoronkwo, and the ever-dangerous Francisca Ordega. Notably, home-based goalkeeper Fatima Oloko from Abia Angels has earned a spot, highlighting the coach's recognition of domestic talent.
The Shocking Omission of Ashley Plumptre
One of the most significant talking points surrounding Madugu’s selection is the surprising exclusion of Al-Ittihad defender Ashley Plumptre. The former Leicester City star has been a cornerstone of the Super Falcons' defense, playing a pivotal role in their previous WAFCON triumph and consistently ranking among the team's most influential players. Her absence is expected to spark considerable debate among fans and pundits alike, raising questions about the tactical rationale behind the decision.
Defending the Crown: WAFCON 2026 Challenge
As record holders with an impressive 10 WAFCON titles, Nigeria enters the competition as the team to beat. The Super Falcons have been drawn into Group C, where they will face formidable opponents in Egypt, Zambia, and tournament debutants Malawi. All of Nigeria’s group-stage encounters are slated to be played in Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital, setting the stage for intense battles from the outset.
Path to the World Cup: High Stakes in Morocco
The 14th edition of the WAFCON marks a significant milestone, as it will feature 16 teams for the first time, expanding the competition and increasing its competitiveness. Beyond continental glory, the stakes are incredibly high: the four semi-finalists will automatically secure their berths for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Furthermore, the fifth-placed team will earn a crucial spot in an intercontinental playoff tournament, offering another pathway to the global showpiece.
The Super Falcons famously clinched their 10th African title by defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final last year. With this strong squad, they will undoubtedly be aiming to extend their unparalleled dominance on the continent and add an 11th championship to their illustrious trophy cabinet, solidifying their legacy as Africa's premier women's football nation.
The Full Super Falcons Roster Revealed
The goalkeeping contingent is anchored by the formidable Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), supported by Comfort Erhabor (Portsmouth Ladies, England) and the promising home-based talent Fatima Oloko (Abia Angels).
In defense, the squad boasts seasoned campaigners such as Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Michelle Alozie (Chicago Stars FC, USA), and Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy). They are joined by Rofiat Imuran (London City Lionesses, England), Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey), Sikiratu Isah (Bnot Netanya, Israel), and Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal), forming a robust backline.
The midfield engine room will be marshaled by captain Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France), alongside Halimatu Ayinde (BK Hacken, Sweden), Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA), Toni Payne (Everton Women, England), and Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint-Germain, France), providing both creativity and defensive solidity.
Upfront, the attacking prowess is undeniable with veteran Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia) leading the line. She is complemented by Gift Monday (Washington Spirit, USA), Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada), Joy Omewa (BK Hacken, Sweden), Francisca Ordega (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China), Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), and Uchenna Kanu (Cruz Azul Femenil, Mexico), promising a potent offensive threat.
With this carefully selected squad, the Super Falcons are poised for a challenging yet exciting campaign, aiming to once again hoist the WAFCON trophy and secure their place among the world's elite at the next FIFA Women's World Cup.
Why This Matters
This squad announcement is crucial as it sets the stage for Nigeria's quest for an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title and directly impacts their qualification hopes for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, showcasing the nation's continued commitment to women's football excellence.