Super Falcons

Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala and defender Ashley Plumptre have made the final list of players selected by head coach Justin Madugu for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from July 5 to 26.

The squad announcement on Friday confirmed the inclusion of team captain Rasheedat Ajibade and other established names like Michelle Alozie, Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, and Ifeoma Onumonu. Also making the cut are rising stars Jennifer Echegini and Deborah Abiodun.

Coach Madugu’s squad features 11 players who will be making their WAFCON debut, signalling a blend of experience and emerging talent. Three home-based players—goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu, defender Sikiratu Isah, and fullback Miracle Usani—were also named and are set to make their mark on the continental stage.

Nigeria, nine-time WAFCON champions, are grouped in Group B alongside Algeria, Tunisia, and Botswana. The Super Falcons will open their campaign against Tunisia on July 6, before playing Botswana on July 10 and Algeria on July 13.

As part of their preparations, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has lined up two friendly matches. The Super Falcons will face Portugal on June 23 in Lisbon, followed by a high-profile clash against West African rivals Ghana on June 29.

Coach Madugu expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness, stating that the combination of seasoned internationals and new talent gives Nigeria a strong chance of reclaiming the WAFCON crown for a record 10th time.