As the Super Falcons gear up to defend their title in Morocco, head coach Justin Madugu has retained the core of the squad that triumphed in the previous year’s tournament. Nigeria, already boasting a record 10 African championships, is now targeting an unprecedented 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title, scheduled from July 26 to August 16.
Madugu has once again placed his trust in seasoned players, officially announcing a robust 25-player roster for the 2026 WAFCON. The squad is captained by Rashidat Ajibade and features top talents including Africa’s leading goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, veteran defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielders Jennifer Echeghini, Halimatu Ayinde, and Toni Payne, as well as the six-time African Women’s Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala.
Absence of Plumptre Due to Injury
One significant aspect of the squad announcement is the absence of experienced defender Ashleigh Plumptre, who has yet to recover from an injury sustained in March. In an emotional message to fans, the defender expressed disappointment at missing the tournament and encouraged supporters to rally behind her teammates in her stead.
She reflected, “My body is asking for more time, so I listen to it.” Plumptre added her hopes for a return to the field when she is ready, while urging fans to support the team. Madugu, however, retains one of the most comprehensive rosters in the continental landscape despite Plumptre’s absence.
Madugu Sets Dual Objectives for Nigeria
The Super Falcons not only head to Morocco as the defending champions but with a critical goal in view. The upcoming WAFCON also doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The top four teams advancing to the semi-finals will secure an automatic berth, while the fifth-placed team will enter intercontinental playoffs.
In the lead-up to the tournament, Madugu emphasized the priority of World Cup qualification. “Our first goal is to ensure we qualify for the World Cup,” he stated, adding that their second objective is to defend their continental title. He acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting, “Everyone is looking at us as champions,” but expressed confidence in the team’s determination to succeed.
A Blend of Experience and Youth in the Squad
While experienced stars form the backbone of the team, Madugu has also integrated a younger generation, poised to shape the future of women’s football in Nigeria. Captain Ajibade will lead the attack alongside Nnadozie, widely regarded as Africa’s top goalkeeper. Veteran players like Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Aloji, Christy Uchebe, and Asisat Oshoala will offer invaluable leadership, complemented by promising talents such as Jennifer Echeghini, Deborah Abiodun, Gift Monday, and Esther Okoronkwo.
Group C Challenge Awaits Nigeria
Nigeria has been drawn in Group C and will contend with Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt. All group-stage matches are to be held in Rabat. Their title defense opens against Malawi on July 28, followed by matches against Zambia and Egypt.
Nigeria’s Historic Opportunity
As Africa’s most successful women’s national team with 10 WAFCON titles to their name, Nigeria has the chance to become the first nation to successfully defend the championship since the competition expanded to 16 teams. The Super Falcons also hold the notable distinction of being the only African nation to qualify for every FIFA Women’s World Cup since its inception in 1991. Achieving a semi-final spot in Morocco would further solidify their legacy and guarantee a place in the upcoming World Cup.
A Comprehensive 25-Member Nigeria Squad for WAFCON 2026
Goalkeepers
- Chiamaka Nnadozie (England, Brighton & Hove Albion)
- Comfort Eljaboor (England, Portsmouth Ladies)
- Fatima Oroko (Abia Angels)
Defenders
- Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico)
- Michel Aloji (Chicago Stars, USA)
- Shukrat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy)
- Rofiat Imran (London City Lionesses, England)
- Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel)
- Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey)
- Sikiratu Isa (Bunot Netanya, Israel)
- Christy Uchebe (Benfica, Portugal)
Midfielders
- Rashidat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France)
- Halimatu Ayinde (BK Hakken, Sweden)
- Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA)
- Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England)
- Jennifer Echeghini (Paris Saint-Germain, France)
Forwards
- Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia)
- Gift Monday (Washington Spirit, USA)
- Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada)
- Joy Omewa (BK Hacken, Sweden)
- Francisca Ordega (Al Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia)
- Folashade Ijamilsi (Liaoning Shenyang/Shenbeihefeng, China)
- Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy)
- Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico)
- Uchenna Kanu (Cruz Azul Femenil, Mexico)
With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, the Super Falcons approach the tournament with high expectations. As reigning champions, they are aware that every opponent will be eager to dethrone them. Madugu’s side is determined to demonstrate why they remain the unrivaled leaders in African women’s football as they vie for a historic 11th continental title and seek to elevate their status on the global stage.
