Nigeria’s Super Falcons began training in Lomé, Togo, on Monday, October 20, 2025, for a vital 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Benin Republic.
Set for Friday at the 25,000-capacity Stade de Kégué, this match is key to securing a spot in the Morocco-hosted tournament, which also qualifies teams for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Coach Justine Madugu led the first session Monday afternoon. Early arrivals included star Asisat Oshoala, six-time African Player of the Year, debutant Joy Omewa, and Turkey-based defender Tosin Demehin.
Others in camp are China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi and home-based players: goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defenders Blessing Ilivieda and Miracle Usani, midfielder Taiwo Afolabi, and forward Kafayat Mafisere.
Match Details
The first leg kicks off at 3 p.m. Togo time (4 p.m. Nigeria time) on Friday. Benin is hosting in Lomé due to no Confederation of African Football (CAF)-approved stadium at home.
The return leg is set for October 28 at MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
CAF chose Gambian referee Ngum Fatou to officiate, with Mauritanians Mariem Chedad and Hamedine Houleye as assistants and Isatou Touray as the fourth official. Niger’s Halimatou Hamidou is the commissioner, and Malawi’s Martha Nyekanyeka serves as referee assessor.
Powerful Lineup
The ten-time African champions field a strong squad. Goalkeepers include Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels), and Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons).
Defenders are Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico), Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA), Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia), Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens), Tosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey), and Miracle Usani (Abia Angels).
Midfielders feature Rasheedat Ajibade and Jennifer Echegini (both Paris Saint Germain, France), Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels), Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA), and Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal).
Forwards include Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico), Joy Omewa (Fortuna Hjorrin FC, Denmark), Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada), Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China), and Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens).
Chasing Glory
The Super Falcons aim to uphold their dominance in African women’s football. Beating Benin will lock in their 2026 WAFCON spot, a stage to shine and earn a World Cup berth.
Madugu’s team mixes veterans with new talent, building on Nigeria’s rich history. Fans are buzzing for Friday’s match, expecting skill and grit to carry the day.
Looking Ahead
A win strengthens Nigeria’s legacy as a powerhouse. The team’s blend of global stars and local heroes signals readiness for the challenge.
With Oshoala’s experience and emerging players like Omewa, the Falcons are poised to impress. This qualifier is a stepping stone to Morocco and Brazil, where they hope to cement their global status.
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