Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has named a 21-player squad, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade and forward Esther Okoronkwo, for Nigeria’s 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Benin Republic.

The squad features three goalkeepers, seven defenders, five midfielders, and six forwards. Ajibade, who was named Player of the Tournament at the 2024 WAFCON after leading Nigeria to a record-extending 10th title in Morocco, headlines the list. The Paris Saint-Germain star will be joined by Okoronkwo of AFC Toronto.

Also making the team is Brighton goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, Africa’s Goalkeeper of the Year for the past two seasons. Other regulars include Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, Deborah Abiodun, Jennifer Echegini, and star forward Asisat Oshoala. Veteran defender Osinachi Ohale and midfielder Christy Ucheibe also make a return to the squad.

The crucial qualifier — the final hurdle before the 2026 WAFCON in Morocco — will see Nigeria face Benin Republic over two legs. The first leg is set for Saturday, October 25, at the Stade Kégué in Lomé, Togo, while the return leg will be played at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

The 2026 WAFCON will also serve as Africa’s qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Nigeria, the reigning continental champions, will look to defend their title after defeating hosts Morocco in the 2024 WAFCON final.

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Full Squad List — Nigeria vs Benin Republic (WAFCON Qualifier)

Goalkeepers:

• Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England)

• Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)

• Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)

Defenders:

• Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca CF, Mexico)

• Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy)

• Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA)

• Ashleigh Plumptre (Al-Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia)

• Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens)

• Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey)

• Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)

Midfielders:

• Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France)

• Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels)

• Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA)

• Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint-Germain, France)

• Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)

Forwards:

• Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia)

• Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca CF, Mexico)

• Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada)

• Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjørring, Denmark)

• Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang, China)

• Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)