Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala top squad for WAFCON 2026
Nigeria's women’s national team has unveiled a formidable squad led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala. Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu picked a 25-player list ahead of the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The defending champions will face Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi in Group C. All group-stage matches will be played in Rabat from July 26 to August 16, 2026. Nigeria, aiming for an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title, starts their campaign with a trio of matches.
Squad Highlights and Numbers
The squad includes reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year Chiamaka Nnadozie, experienced defender Osinachi Ohale, as well as midfielders like Halimatu Ayinde and Jennifer Echegini.
Talent Abounds in Attack
Nigeria’s forward line features several top names, among them, Asisat Oshoala who plays for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Other forwards include Fringica Ordega and Esther Okoronkwo, with the team boasting a total of nine international players.
Detailed Squad List
The full squad comprises:
- Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Fatima Oloko
- Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Sikiratu Isah, Christy Ucheibe
- Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini
- Forwards: Asisat Oshoala, Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Joy Omewa, Francisca Ordega, Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Uchenna Kanu
All of the Super Falcons' group-stage matches will take place in Rabat. The 2026 edition features a total of 16 teams for the first time, with four semi-finalists automatically qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is WAFCON 2026 scheduled?
The tournament will take place from July 26 to August 16, with all group-stage matches played in Rabat.
Who are the key players in the Nigeria squad for WAFCON 2026?
The standout names include Rasheedat Ajibade and Asisat Oshoala. Chiamaka Nnadozie, a six-time African Goalkeeper of the Year, will also lead the goalkeeper position.
What is the significance of WAFCON 2026 for Nigeria?
Nigeria, record 10-time winners, aims to defend their title and secure an unprecedented eleventh WAFCON trophy. Winning this edition would cement their status as one of the greatest women's football nations.
According to reporting by Vanguard Nigeria - Sports.