October 17, (THEWILL) — Nigeria head coach, Justin Madugu, has named a 21-player squad for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against the Republic of Benin. The Super Falcons will face their opponents in the first leg at Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo, due to Benin’s lack of a CAF-approved home ground, before hosting the return fixture at MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on October 28.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade leads the selection alongside goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Folashade Ijamilusi. Defenders Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre join midfielders Jennifer Echegini and Deborah Abiodun in the squad announced by the coaching staff.
Experienced players Osinachi Ohale and Christy Ucheibe feature in the list, whilst younger talents, Kafayat Mafisere and Joy Omewa, receive call-ups. The squad draws from clubs across multiple continents, with representatives from England, France, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Italy, Portugal and the United States.
Nigeria, who have won the African title on 10 occasions, enter the tie with strong expectations of progressing to the continental finals. Morocco will host the tournament, which doubles as the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Three goalkeepers make up the squad, with Nnadozie joined by Anderline Mgbechi and Rachael Unachukwu. The defensive unit comprises six players, whilst five midfielders and six forwards complete Madugu’s selection for the crucial qualifying matches.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
