Nigeria squad announcement: Nnadozie, Oshoala, Ajibade, 22 others called up for Wafcon

 Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has announced a 25-player squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as Nigeria prepares to challenge for a record-extending 11th continental title in Morocco.

The squad, unveiled on Friday, comprises three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and nine forwards, blending experienced campaigners with emerging talents.

In goal, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie headlines the selection after another impressive campaign in Europe. She is joined by Erhabor Comfort and Oloko Fatima.

The defensive unit is anchored by experienced campaigners Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie, who are expected to provide leadership at the back.

They are joined by promising defenders Oluwatosin Demehin, Rofiat Imuran, Shukurat Oladapo, Glory Ogbonna and Sikiratu Isah.

Madugu also retained a strong midfield contingent featuring captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echegini, Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun and Toni Payne, offering a balance of creativity and experience.

In attack, six-time African Women's Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala leads the frontline alongside Chiwendu Ihezuo, Omorinsola Babajide, Francisca Ordega, Gift Monday, Uchenna Kanu, Folashade Ijamilusi and Esther Okoronkwo, who returns after recovering from injury.

Nigeria will head into the tournament as one of the favourites, aiming to reclaim the WAFCON crown and add an 11th title to their impressive continental record.

The Super Falcons will begin their Group B campaign against Malawi on July 28 before facing Zambia on August 1. They will conclude the group stage with a clash against Egypt on August 5 as they seek qualification for the knockout rounds.

Super Falcons' 25-player squad for WAFCON 2026

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Erhabor Comfort, Oloko Fatima.

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Rofiat Imuran, Shukurat Oladapo, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isah.

Midfielders: Deborah Abiodun, Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne.

Forwards: Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, Omewa Joy, Asisat Oshoala, Chiwendu Ihezuo, Omorinsola Babajide, Francisca Ordega, Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu.

Adeyemi Adewale