Justin Madugu has named a strong starting lineup for the Super Falcons’ crucial 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup play-off clash against South Africa at Stade Moulay Rachid, Casablanca, on Thursday night.
Nigeria must secure victory to keep their World Cup hopes alive, with a win sending them through to the inter-confederation play-offs scheduled for the November–December 2026 and February 2027 international windows.
The Super Falcons were knocked out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a 1-0 quarterfinal defeat to Cameroon, ending their hopes of securing automatic qualification for the World Cup. Madugu has made three changes to the side that started that clash.
Chiamaka Nnadozie retains her place in goal, while Shukurat Oladipo, Oluwatosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie continue in defence.
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Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini also keep their places in midfield, with Christy Ucheibe dropping to the bench.
Gift Monday and Rinsola Babajide, who both started the quarterfinal defeat to Cameroon, have also been left out of the starting XI.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade continues to lead the team, while Asisat Oshoala and Uchenna Kanu return to the starting lineup. Francisca Ordega also earns her first start of the tournament.
Nigeria will face a familiar South African side that they defeated in the semifinals of the 2024 WAFCON before going on to win a record-extending 10th continental title.
Banyana Banyana, champions in 2022, were eliminated by hosts Morocco in the quarterfinals of this year’s tournament and are now aiming to secure a third consecutive appearance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The encounter carries significant weight for both teams, with Nigeria and South Africa among only three nations to have won the WAFCON since the tournament’s inception in 1998.
With a place in the inter-confederation play-offs at stake, both sides will be desperate for victory in a crucial match. Kick-off is scheduled for 9pm Nigerian time.
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