Head Coach Justine Madugu has named a strong 24-player squad for Nigeria’s campaign at the 13th Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with captain Rasheedat Ajibade, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Francisca Ordega and Asisat Oshoala headlining the list for the continental showdown in Morocco from July 5 to 26.

The team’s preparations kicked off in Abuja on Thursday, with several players already in camp. Training sessions will continue through Saturday before the contingent jets off to Lisbon, Portugal, on Sunday for the final phase of preparations.

Among the key returnees is Halimatu Ayinde, making a comeback to the midfield, while Saudi-based Ashleigh Plumptre, fan-favourite Michelle Alozie from the USA, and experienced defender Osinachi Ohale bolster a squad that blends depth, flair, and experience.

Also included are Jennifer Echegini, Christy Ucheibe, and teenage sensation Deborah Abiodun in midfield, while home-based talents Rachael Unachukwu (goalkeeper), Sikiratu Isah, and Miracle Usani retain their spots after recent call-ups.

Nigeria’s Squad for 2024 WAFCON Morocco

Goalkeepers:

Chiamaka Nnadozie (recently left Paris FC, France), Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia),Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons, Nigeria).

Defenders:

Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Club de Fútbol, Mexico), Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA), Ashleigh Plumptre (Al-Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Sikiratu Isah (Nasarawa Amazons, Nigeria), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey), Miracle Usani (Edo Queens, Nigeria).

Midfielders:

Rasheedat Ajibade (formerly Atlético Madrid, Spain), Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosengård, Sweden), Deborah Abiodun (Dallas Trinity FC, USA), Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint-Germain, France), Toni Payne (Everton Women, England), Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)

Forwards:

Francisca Ordega (Al-Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Club de Fútbol, Mexico), Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier HSC, France), Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada), Omorinsola Babajide (UDG Tenerife, Spain), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang, China), Chioma Okafor (University of Connecticut, USA).