2026 WAFCON: Madugu names squad for Super Falcons qualifier against Benin

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has unveiled a 21-player squad for Nigeria’s  2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying clash against Benin Republic.

The two-legged encounter will determine which team secures a place at the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco, which also serves as Africa’s qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

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Madugu’s squad features a strong blend of experience and youth, led by team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, recently crowned Player of the Tournament at the last WAFCON, which Nigeria won in Morocco.

The PSG forward also found the net in her club’s UEFA Women’s Champions League clash against Real Madrid on Thursday night.

Also included are goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, Africa’s Goalkeeper of the Year for two consecutive years; defenders Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Osinachi Ohale; midfielders Jennifer Echegini, Christy Ucheibe, and Deborah Abiodun; and forwards Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Esther Okoronkwo, and Folashade Ijamilusi.

Nigeria will play the first leg against Benin at the Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo, as Benin does not have a CAF-approved venue. The return leg is scheduled for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

The Super Falcons, ten-time African champions, will be aiming to maintain their dominance on the continent and book their ticket to Morocco as they begin another journey toward WAFCON glory and World Cup qualification.