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, veteran striker Asisat Oshoala and first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie headlining Nigeria’s team for the continental tournament in Morocco.
Nigeria, the defending African champions and record 10-time WAFCON winners, will be aiming to retain the title they won in dramatic fashion at the previous edition. Madugu has retained the core of the squad that lifted the trophy, blending experienced internationals with emerging talents as the Super Falcons prepare for another title challenge.
Ajibade will captain the team, while Oshoala, one of Africa’s most decorated footballers, is expected to provide leadership and attacking firepower. Nnadozie, widely regarded as one of the continent’s top goalkeepers, also returns after another impressive season at club level.
Other notable inclusions are defenders Ashleigh Plumptre, Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale and Oluwatosin Demehin, while the midfield features Jennifer Echegini, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun, Halimatu Ayinde and Toni Payne.
Madugu has also called up an array of attacking options, including Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Gift Monday, Ifeoma Onumonu, Rinsola Babajide, Folashade Ijamilusi, Chioma Okafor and Uchenna Kanu, giving Nigeria considerable depth in the final third.
The squad reflects Madugu’s preference for continuity, with several players who featured prominently in Nigeria’s successful WAFCON campaign retained for the defence of the title.
Full Super Falcons Squad for WAFCON 2026
Goalkeepers:
- Chiamaka Nnadozie
- Tochukwu Oluehi
- Linda Jiwuaku
Defenders:
- Michelle Alozie
- Ashleigh Plumptre
- Osinachi Ohale
- Oluwatosin Demehin
- Sikiratu Isah
- Shukurat Oladipo
- Miracle Usani
Midfielders:
- Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain)
- Christy Ucheibe
- Deborah Abiodun
- Jennifer Echegini
- Halimatu Ayinde
- Toni Payne
Forwards:
- Asisat Oshoala
- Esther Okoronkwo
- Chinwendu Ihezuo
- Gift Monday
- Ifeoma Onumonu
- Rinsola Babajide
- Folashade Ijamilusi
- Chioma Okafor
- Uchenna Kanu
The Super Falcons will enter the tournament as one of the favourites, seeking to extend their dominance in African women’s football. With a squad that combines proven experience and youthful energy, Madugu will be hoping his side can successfully defend the continental crown and further cement Nigeria’s status as Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
