Falcons Camp Opens for Senegal Friendlies

Super Falcons players are expected to begin arriving at camp in Ikenne, Ogun State, ahead of Nigeria’s two international friendly matches against Senegal as preparations intensify for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

According to reports gathered by RMNews360, the friendlies will provide head coach Justine Madugu with another opportunity to assess his squad before the continental tournament in Morocco, where Nigeria will be seeking an 11th African title.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Sunday unveiled a 23-player squad for the double-header, which will be played at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne-Remo.

Ajibade, Oshoala, Nnadozie Headline Squad

Madugu’s squad features several of Nigeria’s established stars, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and veteran striker Asisat Oshoala.

Midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene retained her place in the squad after making a successful return during the recent friendlies against Cameroon following a three-year absence from the national team.

Forwards Francisca Ordega and Gift Monday were also included as Madugu continues to blend experience with emerging talent.

Belarus-based forward Blessing Nkor returns to the team for the first time since Nigeria’s friendly against France in November 2024, while Turkey-based midfielder Kafayat Shittu earned another call-up after impressive performances for her club side.

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Returnees Boost Competition for Places

One of the notable returnees is defender Rofiat Imuran, who has not featured for the Super Falcons since the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The squad also includes home-based goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, Israel-based defender Sikiratu Isah, defender Tosin Demehin, midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Toni Payne, alongside forwards Folashade Ijamilusi and Joy Omewa.

In addition, Christy Ucheibe, Shukurat Oladipo and Rinsola Babajide, all of whom enjoyed successful seasons and won trophies with their respective clubs, secured places in the squad.

The selection reflects Madugu’s efforts to strengthen competition across all positions as Nigeria fine-tunes preparations for the continental showpiece.

Senegal Tests Await in Ikenne

The Super Falcons will host Senegal in the first friendly match on June 5 before both sides meet again on June 8.

Both matches will take place at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The fixtures come after Nigeria missed previous international windows that could have been used for additional WAFCON preparations, making the games particularly important for the technical crew.

Madugu is expected to use the encounters to evaluate player fitness, tactical combinations and squad depth ahead of the tournament.

Morocco 2026 Looms on the Horizon

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will be held in Morocco from July 25 to August 16.

Nigeria, Africa’s most successful women’s national team with 10 WAFCON titles, have been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and debutants Malawi.

Senegal, meanwhile, will compete in Group A against hosts Morocco, Algeria and Kenya.

With the tournament now just weeks away, the upcoming friendlies are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s final squad and strategy as the Super Falcons pursue another continental crown.

Segun Lasisi

A Lagos-based journalist with a passion for disseminating factual information and a deep appreciation for good music, good food, movies, and beautiful cars. He hopes to travel the world someday, documenting its beauty and diverse cultures through his storytelling.