Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) received a major boost as the Super Falcons camp reached near full capacity ahead of their two international friendly matches against Senegal.
The Lionesses of Teranga arrived in Ikenne-Remo on Tuesday night for the double-header, which will serve as part of both teams’ build-up to the continental tournament in Morocco later this year.
The first fixture is scheduled for Friday at the Remo Stars Sports Complex, while the second match will take place on Monday. Both encounters will kick off at 4 p.m.
Head coach Justine Madugu now has almost all invited players in camp, with only Washington Spirit forward Gift Monday expected to join the squad before the first game. However, midfielder Halimat Ayinde has been ruled out of the friendlies, prompting the late invitation of Israel-based midfielder Josephine Matthias.
The Super Falcons squad combines established stars with emerging talents as Nigeria intensifies preparations for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
Veterans such as captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Francisca Ordega, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene and first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will provide leadership for a new generation that includes Comfort Erhabor, Shukurat Oladipo, Rofiat Imuran, Kafayat Shittu, Josephine Matthias, Joy Omewa and Blessing Nkor.
The friendly matches offer Madugu another opportunity to assess his squad ahead of the continental championship, where Nigeria will face Egypt, Zambia and Malawi in Group C.
Senegal, meanwhile, have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Algeria and Kenya.
The 2026 WAFCON will be held in Morocco from July 25 to August 16 and will also serve as the African qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will secure automatic qualification, while the fifth-placed team will advance to an intercontinental playoff.
With continental ambitions firmly in sight, the upcoming clashes against Senegal provide the Super Falcons with a valuable test as they fine-tune preparations for another title challenge.
