Super Falcons Coach Justin Madugu Names 25 Players for Cameroon Double-Header
Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has officially announced a 25-player squad for Nigeria's upcoming international friendly matches against Cameroon. This selection marks a crucial step in Nigeria's preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the team aiming to defend its continental title and secure qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup.
Blend of Experience and New Talent
The squad, released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), features a strategic mix of seasoned veterans, returning players, and fresh faces making their national team debuts. This composition indicates Coach Madugu's intention to assess team depth and foster healthy competition within the squad ahead of the high-stakes tournament in Morocco.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the team, supported by key players such as first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and attacking talents Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The defensive line remains solid with regulars like Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, and Ashley Plumptre retaining their spots.
Returning Stars and Debutants
Notable returnees to the squad include midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, who plays in Canada, and forward Gift Monday, based in the United States. Both players were absent from Nigeria's last major international fixtures, and their return is expected to bolster the team's midfield and attacking options significantly.
The squad also welcomes two first-time call-ups: goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, who plays in England, and midfielder Precious Christopher, based in Tanzania. Defender Chidinma Okeke, currently playing in Mexico, makes a comeback to the national team setup after an absence.
Cameroon Friendlies Schedule and Significance
The two friendly matches against Cameroon will be held in Yaounde, with the first encounter scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, and the second on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. According to the NFF, these matches will provide the technical crew with an opportunity to evaluate the team's tactical balance and attacking combinations against familiar African opposition.
These friendlies form an essential part of Nigeria's build-up to WAFCON 2026, which will be hosted in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026. The tournament represents the 13th edition of the continental championship and serves as a critical pathway to global football's premier stage.
World Cup Qualification Stakes
The NFF has confirmed that all four semifinalists at WAFCON 2026 will secure automatic qualification for the FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil in 2027. This development significantly raises the stakes for the Super Falcons, who hold the record as Africa's most successful women's national team with ten continental titles.
Nigeria's preparation comes amid reports of internal challenges, including player concerns over unpaid allowances and a lack of friendly matches. These issues mirror recent tensions within the Super Eagles camp, highlighting ongoing administrative hurdles facing Nigerian football.
Full Super Falcons Squad
Goalkeepers: Nnadozie Chiamaka, Erhabor Comfort, Mgbechi Anderline, Oloko Fatima
Defenders: Ohale Osinachi, Alozie Michelle, Demehin Oluwatosin, Plumptre Ashleigh, Oladipo Shukurat, Ogbonna Glory, Isah Sikiratu, Okeke Chidinma, Ucheibe Christy
Midfielders: Ayinde Halimatu, Okobi-Okeoghene Ngozi, Echegini Jennifer, Abiodun Deborah, Christopher Precious
Forwards: Ajibade Rasheedat, Monday Gift, Ihezuo Chinwendu, Okoronkwo Ijeoma, Babajide Omorinsola, Ijamilusi Folashade, Omewa Joy Ogochukwu
