Nigeria's Super Falcons, the reigning champions of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), are gearing up to defend their title at the 2026 tournament set to take place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16. Under the leadership of Head Coach Justine Madugu, a formidable squad of 25 players has been announced, featuring prominent figures such as captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and seasoned forward Asisat Oshoala. These athletes have been pivotal in the team's success, and their inclusion signals Nigeria's ambition to secure an unprecedented 11th continental championship.
The squad is not only bolstered by established stars, but it also includes experienced players like Osinachi Ohale, Jennifer Echegini, Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo, and Francisca Ordega, who bring a wealth of experience to the team. Notably, Fatima Oloko, a home-based goalkeeper from Abia Angels, has also earned a spot on the final roster, highlighting the depth of talent in Nigeria’s domestic league.
However, the announcement of the squad was not without surprises. One of the most notable omissions is Ashley Plumptre, a defender from Al-Ittihad who previously played a crucial role in the Super Falcons' triumph in the last WAFCON, where they defeated Morocco 3-2 to clinch their 10th title. Plumptre's absence raises questions about the defensive lineup as they prepare to face tough competition in Group C, which includes Egypt, Zambia, and tournament debutants Malawi. All group-stage matches will be held in Rabat, Morocco's capital.
This edition of WAFCON is particularly significant as it marks the first time 16 teams will compete in the tournament. The stakes are high, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup set to be held in Brazil. Additionally, the fifth-placed team will have the opportunity to participate in an intercontinental playoff, further intensifying the competition.
The Super Falcons' journey to defending their title will undoubtedly be challenging, but with a squad rich in talent and experience, they are poised to extend their dominance in African women's football.
Super Falcons Squad for WAFCON 2026
- Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Comfort Erhabor (Portsmouth Ladies, England), Fatima Oloko (Abia Angels)
- Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Michelle Alozie (Chicago Stars FC, USA), Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Rofiat Imuran (London City Lionesses, England), Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey), Sikiratu Isah (Bnot Netanya, Israel), Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)
- Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France), Halimatu Ayinde (BK Hacken, Sweden), Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA), Toni Payne (Everton Women, England), Jennifer Echegini (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 (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China), Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Uchenna Kanu (Cruz Azul Femenil, Mexico).
As reported by channelstv.com.
