Nigeria’s quest for an unprecedented 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title has officially gathered momentum after Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu unveiled his final squad for the 2026 tournament in Morocco.
The Nigeria Football Federation released the list on Friday, confirming the players who will carry the country’s hopes as the reigning African champions prepare to defend the trophy they successfully reclaimed at the previous edition. The tournament will run from July 25 to August 16 in Morocco and will also serve as part of the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The squad combines experienced internationals with emerging talents who have impressed during recent international friendlies and domestic competitions. Madugu has retained the core of the team that has delivered consistent performances over the past year while rewarding several players whose form has earned them opportunities on the continental stage.
Leading the squad is captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose leadership and attacking qualities have made her one of the most influential figures in Nigerian women’s football. Since assuming the captaincy, Ajibade has continued to inspire both on and off the pitch, combining relentless work rate with creativity and an eye for goal.
Veteran striker Asisat Oshoala also headlines the squad. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest female footballers, Oshoala brings invaluable experience to the team after years of competing at the highest level in Europe and representing Nigeria at multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups, Olympic Games and Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
In goal, Chiamaka Nnadozie remains Nigeria’s trusted first choice. The highly rated goalkeeper has developed into one of the continent’s finest shot stoppers, earning widespread praise for her composure, command of the penalty area and ability to produce decisive saves in crucial moments.
The defensive unit also features dependable names capable of providing stability as Nigeria faces strong opposition in Morocco. The coaching crew believes the blend of experienced defenders and energetic younger players will provide the balance required for another successful campaign.
Madugu’s midfield selections reflect his desire for technical quality, tactical discipline and attacking transition. The coach has consistently emphasized the importance of controlling possession while maintaining the intensity that has become a hallmark of the Super Falcons under his leadership.
Up front, Nigeria boasts one of the most exciting attacking groups in African women’s football. Alongside Oshoala and Ajibade are several forwards known for their pace, creativity and clinical finishing, giving the coaching staff multiple tactical options depending on the opposition.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Madugu reiterated that defending the continental title remains one of the team’s primary objectives. He also emphasized that securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is equally important as Nigeria seeks to maintain its remarkable record of competing at the highest level of women’s football.
The Super Falcons enter the competition carrying enormous expectations.
Nigeria remains the most successful nation in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won the championship a record 10 times. The team’s dominance has established the Super Falcons as the benchmark for women’s football on the continent, with generations of outstanding players contributing to that remarkable legacy.
From pioneers such as Mercy Akide and Perpetua Nkwocha to modern stars like Oshoala, Ajibade and Nnadozie, the Super Falcons have consistently produced world class footballers capable of competing against the very best internationally.
Their dramatic triumph at the previous tournament further reinforced Nigeria’s status as Africa’s leading force in women’s football after staging a memorable comeback to reclaim the continental crown.
Preparations for this year’s championship have included international friendlies, tactical training camps and extensive player assessments aimed at ensuring the squad reaches Morocco in peak physical and mental condition. The team is scheduled to open its final training camp in Morocco before beginning its group stage campaign later this month.
Football analysts believe Nigeria possesses the quality, experience and squad depth needed to challenge for another title, although competition is expected to be tougher than ever. Traditional rivals including Morocco, South Africa and Zambia have continued investing heavily in women’s football, making this edition one of the most competitive in recent history.
Despite the growing strength of rival nations, confidence remains high within the Nigerian camp.
The blend of seasoned internationals and ambitious young talents provides Madugu with a balanced squad capable of adapting to different tactical situations throughout the tournament.
For many of the younger players, the competition represents an opportunity to establish themselves on one of Africa’s biggest football stages while learning from experienced teammates who have built distinguished international careers.
Supporters across Nigeria will be hoping the team can once again deliver memorable performances and extend the country’s remarkable dominance in African women’s football.
As the countdown to Morocco 2026 continues, the Super Falcons now turn their attention from preparation to performance, determined to defend their crown, strengthen their rich legacy and once again demonstrate why Nigeria remains the standard bearer of women’s football in Africa.
Super Falcons Squad for WAFCON 2026
Goalkeepers.
Chiamaka Nnadozie. Comfort Erhabor.
Anderline Mgbechi
Defenders.
Osinachi Ohale
Michelle Alozie. Ashleigh Plumptre
Oluwatosin Demehin. Shukurat Oladipo
Glory Ogbonna. Sikiratu Isah.
Rofiat Imuran. Chidinma Okeke
Midfielders
Halimatu Ayinde. Christy Ucheibe
Deborah Abiodun. Jennifer Echegini
Ngozi Okobi Okeoghene. Toni Payne
Forwards
Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain). Asisat Oshoala
Chinwendu Ihezuo. Esther Okoronkwo
Gift Monday. Omorinsola Babajide
Folashade Ijamilusi
