The reigning queens of African women’s football, Nigeria’s Super Falcons, are set to defend their crown once again as head coach Justin Madugu has released a formidable 21-woman squad for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final qualifying clash against Benin Republic.

Nigeria, record 10-time African champions, will begin their title defense with a strong lineup that blends experience, talent, and youth. Among the notable names are team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, the 2024 WAFCON Player of the Tournament, and Esther Okoronkwo of AFC Toronto — both ready to lead from the front.

The list also features Brighton’s Chiamaka Nnadozie, who continues her reign as Africa’s best goalkeeper, alongside defensive stalwarts Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Osinachi Ohale. In midfield, Jennifer Echegini, Christy Ucheibe, and Deborah Abiodun add flair and creativity, while forwards Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Folashade Ijamilusi promise firepower in attack.

Nigeria’s squad is well-balanced — three goalkeepers, seven defenders, five midfielders, and six forwards — reflecting Madugu’s intent to maintain dominance on the continent while building a future-ready team.

The first leg of the qualifier will take place at the Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo, on Saturday, October 25, with the return leg set for the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

The 2026 WAFCON, hosted once again by Morocco, will double as the African qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

As the Super Falcons gear up for this crucial test, the message is clear — Nigeria’s golden era in women’s football is far from over.

Full Squad – Super Falcons vs Benin Republic (WAFCON Qualifiers)

Goalkeepers:
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England); Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels); Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)

Defenders:
Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca, Mexico); Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia); Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey); Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)

Midfielders:
Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France); Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels); Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA); Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint-Germain, France); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)

Forwards:
Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca, Mexico); Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjorring, Denmark); Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada); Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia); Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China); Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)