Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has unveiled a strong 23-player squad for Nigeria’s upcoming pre-WAFCON 2026 international friendlies against Senegal, with several big names making the cut as preparations intensify for the continental showpiece.
The two-match friendly series will take place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, with the first encounter scheduled for Friday, 5 June, followed by the second clash on Monday, 8 June.
Big Stars Included as Nigeria Build Up to WAFCON
As expected, Madugu named a full-strength squad packed with experience, quality, and international pedigree.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade headlines the list alongside veteran forward Asisat Oshoala, while dependable goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie also returns to anchor the team from the back.
Other familiar names include Halimatu Ayinde, Oluwatosin Demehin, and several key players who have been central to the Super Falcons’ recent performances.
The squad selection signals Nigeria’s serious intent ahead of the upcoming WAFCON tournament, with Madugu clearly opting for stability and continuity in his core group.
Surprise Returnees and Fresh Faces
The squad also features the return of experienced duo Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene and Francisca Ordega, both of whom bring leadership and depth to the team.
Okobi-Okeoghene adds valuable midfield control and international experience, while Ordega’s return strengthens Nigeria’s attacking options with her pace and direct style of play.
In addition, Turkey-based midfielder Kafayat Shittu has earned her first-ever call-up to the senior national team, marking a major milestone in her career.
Her inclusion highlights Madugu’s willingness to reward emerging talent performing well abroad.
Full Super Falcons Squad for Senegal Friendlies
Goalkeepers:
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton Hove & Albion, England), Comfort Erhabor (Portsmouth Ladies, England), Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)
Defenders:
Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Rofiat Imuran (London City Lionesses, England), Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey), Sikiratu Isah (Bnot Netanya, Israel), Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens), Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)
Midfielders:
Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint Germain, France), Halimatu Ayinde (BK Hacken, Sweden), Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene (Ottawa Rapids, Canada), Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England), Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France), Kafayat Shittu (Giressunsanayispor, Turkey)
Forwards:
Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Gift Monday (Washington Spirit, USA), Joy Omewa (Nottingham Forest, England), Francisca Ordega (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China), Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy), Blessing Nkor (Dynamo Brest, Belarus)
Key Preparation Matches Ahead of WAFCON
The double-header against Senegal is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the final Super Falcons squad ahead of WAFCON 2026.
With several Europe-based stars returning and a blend of youth and experience in the team, Madugu will be looking to fine-tune tactics, build chemistry, and test squad depth against a competitive Senegal side.
The fixtures at Ikenne will also give home fans a rare opportunity to see the Super Falcons in action on Nigerian soil as preparations for continental glory gather momentum.
Conclusion
With a strong squad featuring established stars like Ajibade and Oshoala, returning veterans, and fresh debutants like Kafayat Shittu, the Super Falcons head into the Senegal friendlies with both expectation and excitement.
All eyes will now be on Madugu’s side as they begin their final preparations for WAFCON 2026.
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