Super Falcons' interim head coach, Justine Madugu, has invited 20 players for an international friendly against Les Bleues, the French women’s national team.
The game is scheduled for the Stade Raymond Kopa in Angers, France, with kick-off set for 9:30 PM local time.
The squad features notable returns, including Paris FC goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre, and midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini, who were absent during the last international window against Algeria.
Forwards Gift Monday and Rinsola Babajide, both plying their trade at UD Tenerife in Spain, also made the list.
In addition, goalkeepers Anderline Mgbechi and Rachael Unachukwu join a strong contingent of domestic-based players from the Nigeria Women’s Premier League, including Shukurat Oladipo, Sikiratu Isah, Josephine Mathias, Adoo Yina, and Mercy Omokwo.
Fan favourite Michelle Alozie, Turkey-based defender Oluwatosin Demehin, and striker Ifeoma Onumonu are among the players expected to feature.
However, the team will be without some key players, including Barcelona’s Asisat Oshoala, Deborah Abiodun, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who misses out due to injury.
The Super Falcons are coming off an impressive performance against Algeria earlier this month, winning 2-0 and 4-1 in back-to-back friendlies.
The match against France will serve as crucial preparation for Nigeria as they gear up for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
On their part, Les Bleues view the friendly as an essential warm-up for their UEFA Nations League campaign and the 2025 UEFA Women’s Championship in Switzerland.
Super Falcons squad for France friendly
Goalkeepers:
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC, France), Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels), Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)
Defenders:
Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca, Mexico), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA), Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Rofiat Imuran (London City Lionesses, England), Sikiratu Isah (Nasarawa Amazons), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey)
Midfielders:
Jennifer Echegini (PSG, France), Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England), Josephine Mathias (Nasarawa Amazons), Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal), Shukurat Oladipo (FC Robo Queens), Adoo Yina (Nasarawa Amazons)
Forwards:
Blessing Nkor (Pyramids FC, Egypt), Gift Monday (UD Tenerife, Spain), Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier FC, France), Rinsola Babajide (UD Tenerife, Spain), Mercy Omokwo (Bayelsa Queens)
This exciting clash promises to be a vital test for the Super Falcons as they build momentum toward WAFCON.
