Super Falcons forward Uchenna Kanu has expressed her disappointment over being left out of Nigeria’s squad for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, despite believing she had done enough to earn a place in the team.
Nigeria, coached by Justin Madugu, went on to win a record 10th WAFCON title after a stunning comeback from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3–2 in the final. But Kanu — who featured at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games — was not included in the squad.
The 28-year-old had only recently returned from a six-month injury layoff during the tournament buildup, yet she insisted she was fit and prepared to contribute.
Speaking in an interview with Nigeria Info, Kanu revealed she received no communication from the coaching crew before being dropped.
“I haven’t heard any feedback, especially from the coach,” she said. “There hasn’t been any conversation with me from anyone. I had already started my visa process and a few days before the travel date, I got a text message from the coach saying I was no longer part of the team.
“I felt bad, I was sad. I thought I was going to be part of the team.”
Since returning from injury in March, the Racing Louisville forward has made just seven NWSL appearances, scoring once. She is reportedly out of contract but remains hopeful of earning a recall ahead of the 2026 WAFCON, also in Morocco.
“My teammates did well and I supported them the entire time. I reached out to congratulate them and the coach. Hopefully, I’ll be back on the team,” she added.
Kanu, who has represented Nigeria at U-17, U-20 and senior levels, launched her memoir Football, My Escape in Lagos on Tuesday. She has scored seven goals in 27 appearances for the Super Falcons since making her debut in 2019.
