Super Falcons Set for Senegal Showdown as Stars Begin Camp Ahead of WAFCON Preparations

Super Falcons players are expected to begin arriving at their training camp in Ikenne, Ogun State, ahead of Nigeria’s two international friendly matches against Senegal as preparations intensify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Sunday unveiled a 23-player squad selected by head coach Justine Madugu for the double-header against the Teranga Lionesses, with several experienced stars and returning players making the list.

Leading the squad are captain Rasheedat Ajibade, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and veteran striker Asisat Oshoala, as Nigeria seeks to fine-tune preparations for the continental tournament.

Midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene retained her place in the team after making a successful return during the recent friendlies against Cameroon following a three-year absence from the national team setup.

Experienced forward Francisca Ordega and in-form striker Gift Monday were also included, while Belarus-based forward Blessing Nkor earned a recall after her last appearance in the friendly against France in November 2024.

Turkey-based midfielder Kafayat Shittu was handed another invitation after impressing for Giresun Sanayispor Kulübü, while defender Rofiat Imuran returns to the squad for the first time since featuring at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The squad also features home-based goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, Israel-based defender Sikiratu Isah, defender Tosin Demehin, midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Toni Payne, as well as forwards Folashade Ijamilusi and Joy Omewa.

Also named in the squad are Christy Ucheibe, Shukurat Oladipo and Rinsola Babajide, who recently celebrated league and cup successes with their respective clubs.

The Super Falcons will take on Senegal in the first friendly on June 5 before both teams meet again on June 8 at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne.

The matches will serve as crucial preparation for both nations ahead of the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco, scheduled to hold from July 25 to August 16.

Senegal will compete in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Algeria and Kenya, while Nigeria, Africa’s most successful women’s national team with 10 continental titles, will battle Egypt, Zambia and debutants Malawi in Group C.

The friendlies are expected to provide Madugu with another opportunity to assess his squad and build momentum ahead of the tournament as the Super Falcons aim to reclaim continental glory.