Get Guardian on GoogleNigeria’s Super Falcons have announced a 21-player squad for their final qualifying fixture against the Republic of Benin in the race for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) to be hosted by Morocco.
Head coach Justin Madugu unveiled the list ahead of the first leg scheduled for the Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo — as Benin lack a CAF-approved home venue — with the return leg fixed for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, on October 28.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade headlines the squad alongside goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre, midfielders Jennifer Echegini and Deborah Abiodun, and forwards Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Folashade Ijamilusi.
Also included are veterans Osinachi Ohale and Christy Ucheibe, with emerging talents like Kafayat Mafisere and Joy Omewa earning call-ups.
Nigeria, 10-time African champions, are strong favourites to qualify for the continental showpiece, which also serves as Africa’s qualifying event for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Super Falcons Squad vs Benin
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels), Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca, Mexico), Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA), Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey), Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)
Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (PSG, France), Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels), Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA), Jennifer Echegini (PSG, France), Christy Ucheibe (Benfica, Portugal)
Forwards: Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca, Mexico), Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang, China), Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjorring, Denmark), Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)
