Nigeria’s Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has named a strong 24-woman squad for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, recalling prolific striker Asisat Oshoala for the first time since the Paris Olympics, Footynaija.com reports.
Oshoala, who recently left Barcelona for Bay FC in the US, headlines a group that includes key figures such as team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, experienced defender Osinachi Ohale, and the dynamic Francisca Ordega. All five are among the few in the current squad who have previously lifted the WAFCON trophy.
Also returning is versatile defender Ashleigh Plumptre, who joins a defensive unit that includes Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, Sikiratu Isah, Shukurat Oladipo, and Miracle Usani.
Rinsola Babajide and Ifeoma Onumonu provide further attacking depth for a Falcons side determined to reclaim continental dominance.
Interestingly, coach Justin Madugu also included US-based Chioma Okafor in the squad. Born in Malawi to a Nigerian father and a Malawian mother, Okafor would be making her debut for the Super Falcons at the tournament.
As part of their preparations, Nigeria will take on Portugal in a friendly on June 23 in Lisbon. They will also face West African rivals Ghana before opening their WAFCON campaign against Tunisia on July 6.
With nine titles to their name, the Super Falcons remain the most successful side in African women’s football. They will now aim to clinch a record-extending 10th title in Morocco.
FULL 24-WOMAN SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Nnadozie Chiamaka; Oluehi Tochukwu; Unachukwu Udoka
Defenders: Demehin Oluwatosin; Michelle Alozie; Ohale Osinachi; Isah Sikiratu; Ashleigh Plumptre; Oladipo Shukurat; Usani Miracle
Midfielders: Ayinde Halimatu; Toni Payne; Echegini Jennifer; Rasheedat Ajibade; Ucheibe Christy; Abiodun Deborah;
Forwards: Babajide Omorinsola; Asisat Oshoala; Chioma Okafor; Francisca Ordega; Ihezuo Chinwendu; Onumonu Ifeoma; Okoronkwo Esther; Folashade Ijamilusi