Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has unveiled his 25-player squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as Nigeria begin their chase for a record-extending 11th title in Morocco, www.aclsports.com reports.
The defending champions will head into the 14th edition of the tournament with a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade alongside goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Jennifer Echegini and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala.
Nigeria, who defeated hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final to win the 2024 WAFCON title and claim a record 10th continental crown, will begin their title defence in Morocco from 26 July to 16 August 2026.
Madugu’s squad features three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and nine forwards, with 18 players from Nigeria’s previous WAFCON-winning squad retaining their places.
New faces in the squad include Comfort Erhabor, Fatima Oloko, Rofiat Imuran, Glory Ogbonna, Joy Omewa, Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu.
Players missing out include Ashleigh Plumptre (recovering from surgery), Tochukwu Oluehi, Udoka Unachukwu, Miracle Usani, Chioma Okafor and retired forward Ifeoma Onumonu.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi, with their group-stage matches scheduled to take place in Rabat, Morocco.
Beyond continental glory, WAFCON 2026 will also serve as the qualification pathway for Africa’s representatives at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will secure automatic tickets to the global tournament, while the fifth-placed team will advance to the intercontinental playoff tournament.
Super Falcons 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, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini.
Forwards: Asisat Oshoala, Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Joy Omewa, Francisca Ordega, Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Uchenna Kanu.
