The French Football Federation has announced a 30-player squad for their upcoming international friendlies against Nigeria and Spain. The matches, set for next week, showcase a blend of talent from top European clubs, including Juventus, Real Madrid, PSG, and Chelsea.
Familiar Faces for Nigeria
Several French players will be familiar adversaries for the Super Falcons:
- Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will face her Paris FC teammates Lou Valérie Bogaert and Clara Matéo.
- Midfielder Jennifer Echegini is set to encounter eight PSG players, including Élisa De Almeida, Jade Le Guilly, and Griedge Mbock Bathy.
- Striker Ifeoma Onumonu could meet her Montpellier teammate Justine Lerond in goal.
France’s Key Players
Interim head coach Laurent Bonadei, who succeeded Hervé Renard, has assembled an experienced squad featuring:
- Juventus defender Estelle Cascarino
- Real Madrid’s Maëlle Lakrar and Sandie Toletti
- Chelsea stars Sandy Baltimore and Oriane Jean-François
Veterans such as Wendie Renard, Kadidiatou Diani, and Eugénie Le Sommer add further depth to the lineup.
Match Significance
The friendly against Nigeria, scheduled for November 30 at Stade Raymond Kopa in Angers, serves as vital preparation for France ahead of the UEFA Women’s Nations League and the 2025 UEFA Women’s Championship.
For Nigeria, the game offers an opportunity to rebuild under interim coach Justin Madugu following the departure of Randy Waldrum and a challenging Olympic campaign. Madugu is expected to introduce new faces as the team prepares for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Awaiting Nigeria’s Squad
While France’s squad emphasizes their wealth of talent, Nigeria is yet to release their list for the much-anticipated encounter.
