Madugu names star-studded squad for Super Falcons' WAFCON title defense

Head Coach Justine Madugu has named a formidable 25-player squad for Nigeria's Super Falcons to defend their Women's Africa Cup of Nations title at the 14th edition in Morocco from July 26 to August 16. The squad features key players including captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Africa's top goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielder Jennifer Echegini, and forward Asisat Oshoala.

The Super Falcons are seeking to extend their record with an 11th continental title. They have been drawn into Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia, and debutants Malawi. Matches for this group will be held in Rabat, Morocco's administrative capital. This tournament is particularly significant as the four semi-finalists will secure automatic berths in the next year's FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, while the fifth-placed team will enter an intercontinental playoff.

Nigeria, a consistent presence at the FIFA Women's World Cup since its inception 35 years ago, secured their 10th continental title last summer by defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final. The full squad includes goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, and Fatima Oloko; defenders Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Sikiratu Isah, and Christy Ucheibe; midfielders Rasheedat Ajibade, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne, and Jennifer Echegini; and forwards Asisat Oshoala, Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Joy Omewa, Francisca Ordega, Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Uchenna Kanu.