In a dramatic twist, former Super Falcons captain and Nigeria’s most decorated female footballer, Asisat Oshoala, has made a surprise return to the national team squad for the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Oshoala, 30, a four-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, has been absent from recent Super Falcons matches and was omitted from previous call-ups. However, she has now been named in the 24-player list released by Head Coach Justine Madugu for the continental showpiece taking place from July 5 to 26, 2024.
Also included in the squad are team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and experienced forward Francisca Ordega.
A large portion of the squad has already begun training in Abuja, with sessions scheduled for Thursday through Saturday, before departing for a final training camp in Lisbon, Portugal on Sunday morning.
Coach Madugu also called up Saudi-based defender Ashleigh Plumptre, American-born star Michelle Alozie, veteran centre-back Osinachi Ohale, and midfield regulars Deborah Abiodun, Jennifer Echegini, and Christy Ucheibe.
Home-based talents such as goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu and defenders Sikiratu Isah and Miracle Usani made the final cut, while midfield powerhouse Halimatu Ayinde returns to the squad.
To sharpen the team’s readiness, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has lined up two high-profile friendly matches, against Portugal on Monday, June 23 in Lisbon, and against the Black Queens of Ghana on Saturday, June 29 in Morocco.
Nigeria will play in Group B at WAFCON 2024, facing Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
Full Super Falcons Squad for 13th WAFCON Finals:
Goalkeepers:
Defenders:
Forwards:
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