Oshoala, Ajibade lead Nigeria's charge as Super Falcons unveil WAFCON squad

By Betty Enoch

Nigeria's Super Falcons have named a 25-player squad for the 2026 CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents expected to spearhead the country's quest for a record-extending continental title.

Head coach Justin Madugu has retained a strong core of established internationals, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, veteran striker Asisat Oshoala, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and forward Francisca Ordega.

Nnadozie headlines the goalkeeping department alongside Comfort Erhabor and Fatima Oloko, providing the Super Falcons with a solid last line of defence.

The defensive unit boasts a wealth of experience with Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Rofiat Imuran and Oluwatosin Demehin joined by Shukurat Oladipo, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isah and Christy Ucheibe, giving Nigeria depth across the backline.

In midfield, Ajibade will marshal the engine room alongside Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini.

The combination of z crown.

The attacking line is equally formidable, featuring six-time African Women's Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Joy Omewa, Francisca Ordega, Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Uchenna Kanu.

The squad also reflects the global spread of Nigerian talent, with players drawn from clubs in England, France, Italy, Sweden, Portugal, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, China, Canada, Israel, the United States and the Nigeria Women's Football League.

Nigeria will head to Morocco aiming to reaffirm their dominance in African women's football and add another WAFCON trophy to their illustrious record, with high expectations that the blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting newcomers can deliver success on the continental stage.

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