Super Falcons Senegal friendlies preparations begin in Ikenne as Nigeria’s squad assembles ahead of two key WAFCON warm-up matches

Players of Nigeria’s women’s national team, the Super Falcons, are expected to begin arriving in camp in Ikenne ahead of two international friendly matches against Senegal as preparations intensify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

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The Nigeria Football Federation announced a 23-player squad on Sunday, with head coach Justine Madugu selecting a blend of experienced stars and returning players for the Super Falcons Senegal Friendlies scheduled for June 5 and June 8.

Leading the squad are captain Rasheedat Ajibade, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and veteran striker Asisat Oshoala, all of whom are expected to play key roles as Nigeria fine-tunes preparations for the continental tournament.

Madugu also retained midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, who recently returned to the national team during friendlies against Cameroon after a three-year absence.

Experienced forwards Francisca Ordega and Gift Monday were also included in the squad, providing additional attacking options for the nine-time African champions.

Among the notable returnees is Belarus-based forward Blessing Nkor, who makes her first appearance in the squad since featuring against France in November 2024.

Turkey-based midfielder Kafayat Shittu also earned another invitation after impressive performances for Giresun Sanayispor Kulübü during the recently concluded season.

Defender Rofiat Imuran, who plays for London City Lionesses, returns to the national team setup for the first time since the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Other players named in the squad include goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defender Sikiratu Isah, defender Tosin Demehin, midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Toni Payne, as well as forwards Folashade Ijamilusi and Joy Omewa.

The squad also features Christy Ucheibe, Shukurat Oladipo and Rinsola Babajide, all of whom arrive in camp with confidence after helping their respective clubs secure silverware during the recently concluded campaign.

The two friendly matches against Senegal will be played at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The first encounter is scheduled for Friday, June 5, while the second meeting will take place on Monday, June 8.

The fixtures represent an important opportunity for Madugu to evaluate player fitness, tactical cohesion and squad depth ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Senegal will compete in Group A alongside hosts Morocco, Algeria and Kenya when the tournament begins on July 25.

Nigeria, meanwhile, have been drawn in Group C, where the Super Falcons will face Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi.

The forthcoming friendlies carry added significance after Nigeria missed previous international windows that could have been used to strengthen preparations for the continental showpiece.

With the WAFCON tournament fast approaching, the matches against Senegal are expected to provide valuable competitive minutes and help the coaching crew identify the strongest combinations before the team departs for Morocco.

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The Super Falcons remain Africa’s most successful women’s national team, and the technical crew will be hoping the upcoming friendlies provide a strong platform for another title challenge on the continent.