Nigeria have named a 23-player squad for next month’s international friendlies against Senegal as the Super Falcons continue their preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The squad, announced by the Nigeria Football Federation, features a mixture of experienced internationals and emerging talents drawn from clubs across Europe, Asia, North America and Africa.
The two matches against Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses are expected to provide valuable preparation for the reigning African champions as they continue their build-up to the continental tournament, where they will seek to maintain their position among Africa’s leading women’s football nations.
Leading the squad is captain Asisat Oshoala, who arrives after another productive season with Al Hilal. The forward is among several high-profile players selected by head coach Justin Madugu for the upcoming fixtures.
Jennifer Echegini and Rasheedat Ajibade are also included following campaigns in which both players featured prominently for Paris Saint-Germain. Toni Payne, who enjoyed consistent playing time with Everton, has likewise retained her place in the national team setup.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has also been selected after securing a move to Brighton & Hove Albion. The goalkeeper has continued to enhance her reputation as one of Africa’s leading players in her position and is expected to play an important role in Nigeria’s preparations.
Madugu has opted for a squad that balances experience with fresh talent. Established figures such as Oshoala, Francisca Ordega, Halimatu Ayinde, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene and Ajibade provide a strong core of leadership and international experience.
The coach has also included a number of regular internationals, among them Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini and Gift Monday, as he looks to strengthen combinations ahead of the tournament.
Alongside the experienced names, opportunities have been handed to players who have impressed at club level. Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Blessing Nkor and Joy Omewa are among those selected as the coaching staff continue to assess options before WAFCON.
Nigeria will face Senegal twice during the upcoming international window. The first match is scheduled for 5 June, with the second encounter taking place three days later.
The double-header offers the Super Falcons an important opportunity to evaluate performances, improve team cohesion and test tactical plans before the start of the continental competition.
The goalkeeping department includes Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor and Anderline Mgbechi. In defence, Oluwatosin Demehin, Rofiat Imuran, Shukurat Oladipo, Blessing Ilivieda, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isah and Christy Ucheibe have all been selected.
The midfield unit features Halimatu Ayinde, Rasheedat Ajibade, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini and Kafayat Shittu, while Oshoala, Gift Monday, Francisca Ordega, Folashade Ijamilusi, Omorinsola Babajide, Blessing Nkor and Joy Omewa make up the attacking contingent.
As preparations for WAFCON 2026 intensify, the upcoming matches against Senegal are expected to provide a useful measure of Nigeria’s readiness. The fixtures will allow the Super Falcons to fine-tune their squad and build momentum before another attempt to add to their record as Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
With a blend of proven performers and promising talent, Nigeria will hope the friendlies offer the ideal platform from which to launch their latest quest for continental success.
