WAFCON 2026: 3 Super Falcons stars who could be playing their last African tournament

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is set to kick off in Morocco tomorrow, July 26, and the Super Falcons remain the team to watch. Afrik-Foot reports.

​This year’s competition is particularly crucial due to the newly introduced extended format. Additionally, all four semi-finalists will secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, while the four losing quarter-finalists will battle in playoffs for two spots at an intercontinental qualifier.

​The Nigeria Super Falcons enter the tournament as the defending champions and will be looking to make history once again in Morocco.

​Meanwhile, this article examines three key players in the women’s national team who could be making their final appearance for the country.

​Asisat Oshoala: What Could the Future Hold for the Attacker?

​The Super Falcons striker has been instrumental for the African queens, playing a pivotal role in their last WAFCON triumph. However, the star attacker is among the prominent names likely to exit the national team soon.

​Looking at the timeline, the next WAFCON tournament takes place in 2028, by which time Oshoala — currently 32 — might no longer be at her physical peak to keep a regular starting position in the national team.

​Nigeria’s attacking sensation has enjoyed an incredible career at both club and international levels. Named African Women’s Footballer of the Year six times, Oshoala has played in top European leagues for clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal, and Barcelona, famously becoming the first African woman to win the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Barcelona in 2021.

Oshoala is one of the most successful players in women’s football history and will likely make way for fresh legs in the near future. Her current form remains undisputed, as she continues to be a dangerous attacking force for Saudi club Al Hilal.

​Francisca Ordega: Is a Super Falcons Exit Imminent?

​The Al-Ittihad attacking sensation is another key player who fits the profile of a potential post-tournament departure from the Super Falcons. Although she remains a valuable asset to the team, age is becoming a major factor for Francesca Ordega.

​The 32-year-old has written her name in gold throughout her career, both internationally and at club level.

​Ordega is among the players selected by Justine Madugu for the WAFCON squad. However, she is no longer the undisputed first choice in the attack, facing stiff competition from younger, in-form players such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Omorinsola Babajide, and Toni Payne.

​Osinachi Ohale: What the Future Holds

​Osinachi Ohale rounds out the trio of veterans likely approaching the end of their Nigeria careers. The seasoned defender has been named in the 25-man squad for the upcoming WAFCON.

​Ohale has provided a wealth of experience to the national team’s defense for years. The Nigerian international currently plays as a center-back or right-back for Liga MX Femenil side Pachuca, having previously featured for top American and European clubs, including the Houston Dash, Spanish side CD Tacón, and AS Roma.

But she is already 34 and is already in the twilight of her career. Coach Madugu has already started using Shukurat Oladipo in some games. That is a sign that a replacement is already in the works.

​With the rise of exciting young talent in the Super Falcons, squad transitions have become inevitable as fresh legs join Justine Madugu’s side. Osinachi Ohale, Francesca Ordega, and Asisat Oshoala have been key players over the last decade, but it is becoming increasingly likely that their international chapters will close before the 2028 WAFCON.