Head coach Justin Madugu has named a strong starting XI for Nigeria’s opening Group C fixture against Malawi at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the Super Falcons aiming to begin their title defence on a winning note at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday.
Madugu has retained the core of the side that lifted Nigeria’s record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco last year, opting for a blend of experience and youthful energy as the ten-time champions begin their quest for an 11th continental crown.
Chiamaka Nnadozie starts in goal, while there is only one change in defence from the team that started in the 2024 WAFCON final. Shukurat Oladipo comes into the backline to replace the injured Ashleigh Plumptre, joining Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin and Michelle Alozie.
In midfield, Halimatu Ayinde partners Jennifer Echegini, while Madugu has kept faith with the same attacking quartet that impressed in last year’s final. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade leads the frontline alongside Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi and Chinwendu Ihezuo.
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Ajibade will be looking to continue her outstanding form for the Super Falcons after captaining Nigeria to the WAFCON title in 2024 and winning the tournament’s Best Player award.
Okoronkwo also heads into the tournament in fine form after registering two goals and seven assists during the previous edition, while Ihezuo, who scored three goals in Nigeria’s successful campaign, will be hoping to maintain her scoring touch.
Ijamilusi, another standout performer from the 2024 triumph with two goals, will also be eager to build on her impressive displays for the national team.
Madugu has plenty of quality in reserve, with veteran striker Asisat Oshoala among the substitutes alongside midfielders Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe, and forwards Omorinsola Babajide, Joy Omewa and Gift Monday.
Goalkeepers Fatima Oloko and Comfort Erhabor, defenders Rofiat Imuran, Sikiratu Isah and Glory Ogbonna, as well as Toni Payne, Uchenna Kanu and Francisca Ordega, complete Nigeria’s bench for the encounter.
A positive result against tournament debutants Malawi would provide the ideal start for the Super Falcons as they continue their bid to retain the WAFCON title and extend their dominance on the African continent.
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