Madugu Names Ajibade, Nnadozie, Oshoala Among 21 for WAFCON Qualifier

Coach Justine Madugu has issued a 21-player provisional list for Nigeria’s upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying match against Benin, including key names such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and Asisat Oshoala.

The squad features a mix of experienced internationals and rising talents, reflecting Madugu’s blend of continuity and renewal. Ajibade retains her leadership role and remains a mainstay in the attack. Nnadozie continues between the sticks as first-choice goalkeeper, while Oshoala offers goal-scoring firepower as one of Africa’s most decorated forwards.

The invitation list suggests Nigeria are preparing to enforce both stability and depth as they seek to assert dominance in continental competitions and secure their path to WAFCON.

Editorial

In the often turbulent waters of women’s international football, the announcement of Madugu’s 21-player squad is a statement of intent a calibrated mix of experience and youthful promise. By retaining names like Ajibade, Nnadozie, and Oshoala, Madugu signals that leadership, identity, and performance remain non-negotiable.

Ajibade is more than a captain; she is a symbolic anchor. Her presence on this list is affirmation that Nigeria is not abjuring its tried paths in pursuit of novelty. Nnadozie, often the difference between resilience and uncertainty in goal, reminds us that stability in that position can quiet the turbulence behind the backline. And Oshoala versatile, decorated, relentless is a constant the benchmark for ambition, the embodiment of Nigeria’s goal.

Yet the inclusion of younger players in this ensemble is arguably more consequential. These are the ones who must absorb pressure, learn from the veterans, and gradually shoulder expectation. A squad cannot live on heritage alone; it must graft into the future.

The risk lies not in naming big stars, but in the handling of transitions. Overload a youth in a high-stakes match and you risk collapse. Tempt to overprotect and you stunt growth. Madugu’s task, then, is delicate to respect the legacy, but also to challenge the new voices to become worthy custodians.

If Nigeria is to reclaim supremacy in women’s football, it must do so with a squad that is both rooted and rising. This list suggests Madugu understands that balance. What remains is execution in camp, in qualification, and ultimately on the pitch.

Did You Know?

1. This is not the first time Madugu has invited Ajibade, Nnadozie, and Oshoala in the same squad they formed part of previous Nigeria lineups in continental tournaments.
2. Chiamaka Nnadozie previously featured for Paris FC in France’s top division before returning to Super Falcons duties.
3. The trio Ajibade, Nnadozie, and Oshoala have all represented Nigeria at multiple WAFCON tournaments, carrying institutional memory into this next cycle.
4. This provisional list suggests a 21-player setup many African women’s teams use such lists to allow flexibility before finalising the squad closer to match day.
5. In prior calls, Madugu has emphasised fitness, versatility, and balancing domestic and diaspora players in his selection metrics.