THE Super Falcons of Nigeria are scheduled to begin training today in Lome, Togo ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final qualifying round first leg match against Benin Republic on Friday.
Six-time Africa Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala was among the early arrivals in the Super Falcons’ Lome camp, alongside new invitee Joy Omewa, as well as Turkey-based defender Tosin Demehin, China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi.
The home-based quintet of goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defenders Blessing Ilivieda and Miracle Usani, midfielder Taiwo Afolabi and forward Kafayat Mafisere are also already in the Togolese capital.
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has confirmed that the team will begin training sessions in Lome in the afternoon, as they prepare to face Benin Republic at the 25,000-capacity Stade de Kégué on Friday afternoon.
Both West African neighbours clash in a final qualifying round for the 2026 WAFCON to be hosted by Morocco, and which serves as Africa’s qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, to be hosted by Brazil.
The match will kick off at 3pm Togolese time (4pm Nigerian time).
The return leg is slated for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta on Tuesday next week.
The Confederation of African Football has selected Gambian official Ngum Fatou as referee for Friday’s match, with Mauritanians Mariem Chedad and Hamedine Houleye as assistant referees 1 and 2 respectively, while Gambian Isatou Touray will serve as fourth official.
Halimatou Hamidou from Niger Republic will be the match commissioner, while Martha Nyekanyeka from Malawi will be the referee assessor.