WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons name squad for title defence

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has announced a 25-player squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with Nigeria aiming to successfully defend the continental crown in Morocco.

The squad blends experienced internationals with emerging talent, as captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and six-time African Women's Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala headline the defending champions' roster.

Nigeria will enter the tournament as Africa's most successful women's national team, chasing an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title.

Plumptre omission headlines squad selection

Perhaps the biggest talking point from Madugu's squad announcement is the absence of defender Ashley Plumptre. The Al-Ittihad defender played a vital role in Nigeria's title-winning campaign last year and has become one of the team's most reliable performers in recent seasons.

No official explanation accompanied her omission, making it one of the most notable selection decisions ahead of the tournament.

Experienced core remains intact

Despite a few selection surprises, Madugu has retained much of the squad that helped Nigeria reclaim the African title. The experienced defensive unit includes Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie and Oluwatosin Demehin, while the midfield features Halimatu Ayinde, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne and Deborah Abiodun.

In attack, Oshoala will be supported by Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Uchenna Kanu and Francisca Ordega, giving Nigeria a wealth of attacking options.

Brighton goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie remains the undisputed first choice between the posts after another impressive season in Europe.

Home-based representation

One of the domestic league's success stories is the inclusion of Abia Angels goalkeeper Fatima Oloko.

Her selection highlights Madugu's willingness to reward strong performances in the Nigeria Women's Football League while maintaining a squad largely built around players competing abroad.

Challenging group awaits Nigeria

Nigeria has been drawn into Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament newcomers Malawi. All of the Super Falcons' group-stage matches will take place in Rabat, with Zambia expected to provide the toughest challenge after establishing themselves among Africa's leading women's teams in recent years.

Egypt also return with ambitions of reaching the knockout rounds, while Malawi will be making history in their first-ever WAFCON appearance.

Beyond the race for the African title, qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup adds further significance to the tournament. The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for the global tournament in Brazil, while the fifth-placed nation will earn a place in an intercontinental playoff.

With expanded qualification opportunities available, competition is expected to be more intense than ever.

Nigeria eye historic 11th crown

The Super Falcons produced one of the competition's most memorable comebacks to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in last year's final and reclaim continental supremacy.

Now, Madugu's side arrives in Morocco carrying both the pressure and expectation that comes with defending the title.

If successful, Nigeria would extend its remarkable dominance by winning an 11th Women's Africa Cup of Nations championship, further cementing its status as the continent's benchmark in women's football.

Nigeria's WAFCON 2026 Squad

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Fatima Oloko

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Sikiratu Isah

Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade, Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini

Forwards: Asisat Oshoala, Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Joy Omewa, Francisca Ordega, Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Uchenna Kanu

SportsLigue