Flight delays disrupt Super Falcons' camp arrival

Super Falcons midfielder Deborah Abiodun and forward Gift Monday experienced travel disruptions, with their arrival at Nigeria's training camp in Casablanca delayed. The players were scheduled to fly from the United States, but their flight was cancelled due to technical issues, forcing the Nigeria Football Federation to arrange alternative travel.

Upon reaching the airport, Abiodun and Monday discovered their flight had been cancelled. The federation promptly purchased new tickets to enable the duo to continue their journey to Morocco. Despite this setback, their arrival is anticipated to bolster the Super Falcons' preparations for the upcoming Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The camp in Casablanca has been steadily growing, with forward Folashade Ijamilusi arriving from China to bring the total number of players to 23. Ijamilusi, a former junior international, has a history of scoring crucial goals in the WAFCON, including Nigeria's equalizer in their dramatic 3-2 victory over hosts Morocco in the previous final. She currently plays for Chinese club Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng.

Abiodun and Monday's arrival will finalize coach Justine Madugu's 25-player squad for the tournament. The Super Falcons are preparing at the La Noria Club in Casablanca before heading to Rabat for their Group C matches. Nigeria, the 10-time African champions, will face Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt in the group stage.

Nigeria enters the 2026 WAFCON as the defending champions and holds the record for the most titles. Their title defense begins against Malawi on Tuesday, July 28, followed by matches against Zambia on August 1 and Egypt four days later. This year's tournament also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic berths and one additional team securing a spot through intercontinental play-offs.