WAFCON 2026: 14 Super Falcons stars who should make Nigeria’s squad as Ghana name team

With less than three weeks left before the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) begins in Morocco, attention is now turning to the players expected to represent Nigeria, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Falcons lifted a record-extending 10th WAFCON title last year and the African queens will look to defend their continental crown in Morocco.

Head coach Justin Madugu is expected to announce his squad soon, with the team’s training camp set to open in Morocco in the coming days. While Nigerian fans continue to wait for the official list, one of the country’s biggest rivals, Ghana, has already taken a major step by unveiling its provisional squad for the tournament.

The Super Falcons will enter WAFCON as defending champions and the favourites to lift the trophy once again. With several experienced stars enjoying strong club seasons in Europe, Asia and the United States, Madugu has plenty of quality to choose from as he builds a squad capable of retaining Nigeria’s African title.

Ghana set the pace with provisional squad announcement

Ghana’s preparations gathered momentum after Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren named a 27-player provisional squad for the competition.

The Swedish coach selected a blend of experienced internationals and promising young talents as the Black Queens intensify preparations ahead of the tournament in Morocco.

Captain Portia Boakye headlines the squad alongside established names such as Grace Asantewaa, Alice Kusi, Evelyn Badu, Jennifer Cudjoe, Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah, Princess Marfo, Stella Nyamekye and Princella Adubea.

Several players from Ghana’s domestic Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League also earned places after impressive performances, including Cynthia Konlan Fiindib of FC Samartex Ladies, Osman Huzeima of Jonina Ladies and Ajegipina Zakaria of Ampem Darkoa Ladies.

Ghana have been drawn in Group D, where they will begin their campaign against Cape Verde on July 29 before facing Cameroon on August 2. Their final group match will come against Mali on August 6, with all three fixtures scheduled for the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca.

The announcement has naturally shifted attention to Nigeria, with many supporters eager to see the Super Falcons squad that will attempt to defend the country’s continental title.

The 14 Super Falcons stars expected to form Nigeria’s core

Although the final squad has not yet been announced, there are several players who appear almost certain to feature if fully fit.

In goal, Chiamaka Nnadozie remains Nigeria’s first choice after another outstanding season at Brighton. Her commanding displays, quick reflexes and leadership continue to confirm her spot as Africa’s best goalkeeper. Young goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor has also impressed and could provide valuable backup.

The defence is expected to be built around experienced campaigners and dependable performers. Ashleigh Plumptre offers versatility across the backline, while Michelle Alozie provides energy and attacking support from the right. Oluwatosin Demehin continues to develop into one of Nigeria’s most reliable central defenders, and veteran Osinachi Ohale brings invaluable experience from several major international tournaments.

Nigeria also boast arguably the strongest midfield in Africa. Deborah Abiodun’s aggressive ball-winning ability gives the team defensive stability, while Christy Ucheibe provides strength and tireless running in midfield. Jennifer Echegini adds creativity and attacking quality between the lines, with Halimatu Ayinde expected to bring experience and composure whenever needed.

The attack remains Nigeria’s biggest strength. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade has become one of the team’s most influential players through her pace, creativity and leadership. Six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala continues to offer proven goalscoring quality and big-match experience despite fierce competition for places.

Gift Monday has enjoyed impressive club form and offers flexibility across the front line, while Folashade Ijamilusi has continued to enhance her reputation with her direct running, speed and finishing ability.

If Madugu chooses to build around these 14 players, Nigeria could line up in a balanced 4-2-3-1 system. Nnadozie would start in goal behind a defence of Alozie, Demehin, Ohale and Plumptre. Ucheibe and Abiodun could anchor midfield, allowing Echegini to operate behind a front three of Ijamilusi, Ajibade and Oshoala.

Nigeria’s final squad announcement is expected to generate huge excitement as the Super Falcons begin another quest for continental glory in Morocco.