Nigeria’s Super Falcons unveil a powerful 24-woman squad ahead of the 2025 WAFCON showdown.
Veterans and rising stars unite as title chase begins July 5 in Morocco’s Casablanca.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons are gearing up for another bold title run at the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with head coach Justine Madugu unveiling a formidable 24-woman squad on Thursday. The reigning African queens, who are aiming to claim a record-extending 10th continental crown, will begin their campaign in Morocco from July 5 to 26, 2025.
Among the headline names are team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, shot-stopper Chiamaka Nnadozie, experienced forwards Francisca Ordega and Asisat Oshoala, and defensive stalwart Ashleigh Plumptre. The squad blends veteran presence with promising youth, including exciting midfielders like Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini, ensuring balance and depth across all positions.
The team commenced training in Abuja on Thursday and will continue sessions until Saturday before departing for Lisbon, Portugal, on Sunday, June 22. The Portuguese camp is expected to serve as the Falcons’ final preparation hub ahead of their group stage games against Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria in Casablanca.
To sharpen the team’s competitive edge, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has scheduled high-profile friendlies against Portugal’s senior national team in Lisbon on Monday, June 23, and archrivals Ghana in Morocco on Sunday, June 29.
Coach Madugu’s selection includes a mix of seasoned internationals and promising home-based talents. Ashleigh Plumptre, currently playing her trade in Saudi Arabia, returns to reinforce the backline alongside Osinachi Ohale and fan-favorite Michelle Alozie.
Midfield general Halimatu Ayinde, who missed previous games due to injury, is back to marshal the center of the park alongside Christy Ucheibe and Toni Payne. Notably, several young players such as Miracle Usani, Sikiratu Isah, and Folashade Ijamilusi, have also earned call-ups, offering fresh energy and options for Madugu.
Home-based stars like Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons) and Chioma Okafor (University of Connecticut, USA) round out a diverse and competitive squad.
The Super Falcons are drawn in Group B, where they will face Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. With Nigeria widely seen as favorites, the team will be under pressure to perform after their semi-final exit in 2022, which broke their winning streak of three straight WAFCON titles.
Madugu has emphasized discipline, tactical sharpness, and goal efficiency as core focus areas heading into the tournament. With players like Oshoala, Ajibade, and Ordega leading the front line, the Falcons boast one of the most potent attacking trios on the continent.
Full squad breakdown
Goalkeepers:
- Chiamaka Nnadozie
- Tochukwu Oluehi
- Rachael Unachukwu
Defenders:
- Osinachi Ohale
- Shukurat Oladipo
- Michelle Alozie
- Ashleigh Plumptre
- Sikiratu Isah
- Oluwatosin Demehin
- Miracle Usani
Midfielders:
- Rasheedat Ajibade
- Halimatu Ayinde
- Deborah Abiodun
- Jennifer Echegini
- Toni Payne
- Christy Ucheibe
Forwards:
- Asisat Oshoala
- Francisca Ordega
- Chinwendu Ihezuo
- Ifeoma Onumonu
- Esther Okoronkwo
- Omorinsola Babajide
- Folashade Ijamilusi
- Chioma Okafor
With an experienced core and youth injection, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are well-positioned to reclaim their continental dominance in Morocco. All eyes will be on the team when they step onto the field in Casablanca, where legacy meets ambition.
