Nigeria’s Super Falcons will enter the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a familiar mission — retain their continental crown and secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Head coach Justine Madugu has unveiled a 25-player squad designed to balance proven champions with emerging talents as the 10-time African champions begin their title defence in Morocco.
Rather than making sweeping changes, the technical crew has kept faith with the core group that defeated hosts Morocco 3-2 in the 2025 WAFCON final.
About 19 members of that victorious squad return, giving Nigeria a strong foundation built on experience and chemistry.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, forward Esther Okoronkwo, defender Michelle Alozie, Deborah Abiodun, Jennifer Echegini and other key figures from the previous triumph are expected to lead the charge as the Falcons chase a record-extending 11th continental title.
Despite calls for a younger squad, Madugu has retained several experienced players whose careers have been shaped by major tournaments.
Asisat Oshoala, Halimatu Ayinde, Francisca Ordega, Osinachi Ohale and captain Rasheedat Ajibade remain central to Nigeria’s plans.
Ohale brings enormous tournament experience, having won five WAFCON titles and featured at four FIFA Women’s World Cups.
Oshoala, Africa’s most decorated female footballer, offers leadership despite recent questions over her form.
Ajibade, who was named the Most Valuable Player during Nigeria’s last WAFCON triumph, will again carry the captain’s responsibility alongside other senior figures expected to guide the younger players.
The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the absence of Ashleigh Plumptre.
The defender, who played a key role in Nigeria’s previous WAFCON success and featured at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, misses the tournament while recovering from an injury sustained in March.
Plumptre expressed disappointment over her absence but urged Nigerians to continue supporting the team.
Her unavailability leaves a major defensive responsibility for the remaining defenders, who must fill the void created by one of Nigeria’s most reliable players.
While some familiar names remain, the 2026 tournament also provides opportunities for new faces.
Joy Omewa and Abia Angels goalkeeper Fatimah Oloko received their first WAFCON call-ups, with Oloko becoming the only domestic league player in the squad.
The 18-year-old goalkeeper impressed in the Nigeria Women’s Football League, winning the Goalkeeper of the Season award and helping Abia Angels reach the Super Six competition.
She will compete for a place with Portsmouth goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, another young talent included as part of the team’s gradual transition.
One of the exciting additions is the return of forward Monday Gift.
The Washington Spirit attacker missed the previous WAFCON but returns with pace and attacking ability that could provide Nigeria with another weapon in the final third.
With players such as Oshoala, Ajibade and Gift available, the Falcons enter the tournament with one of the strongest attacking units in African football.
For Nigeria, squad debates will disappear once the tournament begins.
The target is clear: defend the WAFCON title, maintain their dominance in African women’s football, and book a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
With a mixture of champions, experienced leaders and hungry newcomers, the Super Falcons believe they have the right blend to make history once again.
