Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have begun in earnest, with the Super Falcons opening camp in Casablanca, Morocco, ahead of the continental tournament.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, six-time CAF Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, defenders Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Rofiat Imuran and Shukurat Oladipo, midfielder Christy Ucheibe, as well as Abia Angels goalkeeper Fatima Oloko, were among the first players to report to camp.
The camping programme will allow head coach Justine Madugu and his technical crew to fine-tune tactics, strengthen team chemistry and prepare the squad physically for the competition.
More players are expected to join the team in the coming days, including experienced stars Osinachi Ohale, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne, Michelle Alozie, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Esther Okoronkwo, Francisca Ordega, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Omorinsola Babajide, Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu. Portsmouth goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, Israel-based defender Sikiratu Isah, Sweden-based forward Joy Omewa and China-based striker Folashade Ijamilusi are also expected in camp.
The Super Falcons will compete in Group C, where they will open their campaign against Malawi on July 28 before taking on Zambia on August 1. They will round off the group stage with a clash against Egypt on August 5.
Nigeria heads into the tournament as defending champions after defeating hosts Morocco 3-2 in last year’s final to claim a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. The team will be aiming to lift the trophy for an 11th time when the competition takes place from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco.
In addition to the continental title, the tournament also offers qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic places at the global showpiece, while the fifth-placed team will advance to the intercontinental play-offs.
