WAFCON 2026: Madugu Names Ajibade, Nnadozie, Oshoala, 23 Others For Title Defence

Super Falcons Head Coach Justine Madugu has unveiled a 25-player squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and veteran forward Asisat Oshoala among those selected to defend Nigeria’s continental crown.

Madugu’s squad for the tournament, scheduled to hold in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, also includes experienced campaigners such as Osinachi Ohale, Jennifer Echegini, Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo and Francisca Ordega.

Home-based goalkeeper Fatima Oloko of Abia Angels also made the final list.

One of the biggest surprises in Madugu’s selection is the omission of Al-Ittihad defender Ashley Plumptre. The former Leicester City star was a key member of the Super Falcons squad that clinched the continental title last year and has remained one of the team’s most influential defenders.

Nigeria, the defending champions and record holders with 10 WAFCON titles, have been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi. All their group-stage matches will be played in Rabat, Morocco’s administrative capital.

The 14th edition of the competition will feature 16 teams for the first time. The four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, while the fifth-placed team will advance to an intercontinental playoff tournament.

The Super Falcons secured their 10th African title after defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in last year’s final and will be aiming to extend their dominance on the continent with an 11th championship.

Super Falcons Squad for WAFCON 2026

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Comfort Erhabor (Portsmouth Ladies, England), Fatima Oloko (Abia Angels)

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).