Head coach Justine Madugu has named his 25-woman squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with the Super Falcons targeting an 11th continental title and qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Madugu, who led Nigeria to victory at the last WAFCON, has largely retained the core of that title-winning squad, blending experienced players with a handful of new faces. Roughly 19 of the 25 invited players — over 75 per cent — return from the campaign that saw Nigeria beat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final.
Players expected to carry much of the responsibility include Chiamaka Nnadozie, Esther Okoronkwo, Michelle Alozie, Deborah Abiodun, and Jennifer Echegini, alongside seasoned campaigners Asisat Oshoala, Halimatu Ayinde, Francisca Ordega, Osinachi Ohale, and Rasheedat Ajibade.
Ohale, one of the longest-serving members of the Super Falcons setup, has won the WAFCON five times — in 2010, 2014, 2016, 2018, and the most recent edition — and has represented Nigeria at four FIFA Women’s World Cups.
Oshoala, Africa’s most decorated female footballer with six CAF Women’s Player of the Year awards, four WAFCON titles, and three World Cup appearances, also features despite recent form concerns.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was named Most Valuable Player when Nigeria won the last WAFCON, is joined by Ordega, a five-time WAFCON winner with four World Cup appearances.
The tournament runs from July 26 to August 16, with Nigeria aiming to defend their title and secure a place at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
