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When the Nigeria’s women’s national football team step onto the pitch at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco this July, they won’t just be playing for goals – they’ll be chasing history.
The Super Falcons already boast a record nine continental titles won in 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2016, and 2018. Now, they’re aiming for a 10th trophy, and the squad assembled by head coach Justine Madugu suggests they mean serious business.
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The 24-woman roster is a balanced mix of seasoned veterans, world-stage-tested stars, and hungry home-based talents. It’s a strong squad, but not without controversy – most notably the omission of Gift Monday, who has been on fire with Washington Spirit in the National Women’s Soccer League, tallying over a dozen goals and assists this season.
It took a few sleepless nights, but Gift eventually unwrapped her emotions: “…while it hurts and is a tough pill to swallow, I hold no grudges or resentment, and I am still deeply in love with the game and the green, white, green.”
At the heart of the team lies continuity, experience, and a burning desire to reclaim dominance after South Africa’s historic win in 2022 halted Nigeria’s dominance on the continent.
But how can they achieve this feat?
Experience & Leadership
Leading the team is captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose contract with Atlético Madrid just concluded, but whose leadership and dynamic play on the wing remain central to Nigeria’s tactical setup. Alongside her are familiar names like Asisat Oshoala – Africa’s most decorated female footballer – and Halimatu Ayinde, who returns to the squad after missing recent fixtures.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, widely regarded as the best goalkeeper on the continent brings her shot-stopping brilliance and growing international experience, having just finished a strong spell at Paris FC. Her presence between the sticks gives the team a sense of calm and confidence.
Francisca Ordega and veteran defender Osinachi Ohale add depth and stability to the squad, offering a wealth of tournament experience that could prove crucial in Morocco.
Rising Stars and Global Flair
But it’s not just about the old guard. Nigeria’s squad is laced with exciting new blood and international flair, with the likes of Jennifer Echegini of Paris Saint-Germain, and Dallas Trinity’s Deborah Abiodun.
The defence will get a big boost with the return of Ashleigh Plumptre, known for her calm presence and ability to play out from the back. She’s joined by the ever-reliable Michelle Alozie of Houston Dash, a tireless workhorse and fan’s favorite, thanks to her grit, energy, and all-around versatility.
Home-based players like Miracle Usani, Sikiratu Isah, and goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu have also earned their spots, amplifying Madugu’s intent to blend local league potential with international class.
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Strategic Build-Up
As they say, luck is when preparation meets opportunity – and the Nigeria Football Federation isn’t taking any chances. The Super Falcons started their preliminary training sessions in Abuja before flying to Lisbon, Portugal, for an enhanced camping laced with a grade a warm-up match against their host. They’ll then face another tough test in Morocco on 29 June against regional rivals Ghana – a tie that promises to offer a taste of the high-pressure atmosphere the Falcons will face in the tournament proper.
A Legacy to Defend, A Future to Inspire
There’s more at stake than just a trophy. For the Super Falcons, this WAFCON is about affirming their legacy while continuing to inspire a new generation of girls back home. In recent years, African women’s football has seen rapid growth, with nations like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia closing the gap. Nigeria can no longer rely on reputation alone.
Yet, there’s a sense that this particular squad – with its depth, balance, and experience – might just be the right mix to restore Nigeria’s supremacy.
Placed in Group B, Nigeria will battle Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca. On paper, it’s a group Nigeria should comfortably navigate. However, tournament football has little respect for history or rankings. The Super Falcons, will have to earn every point.
With the world watching and the nation behind them, the Super Falcons now prepare to take flight once more – chasing not just a 10th title, but a reaffirmation of their place at the summit of African football.
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