Asisat Oshoala Excluded As Coach Madugu Names Super Falcons Squad For Friendly

Super Falcons head coach, Justin Madugu, has announced a 23-woman squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the team, stepping up in the absence of star forward Asisat Oshoala.

Oshoala’s omission highlights a focus on nurturing emerging talent within the squad. The announcement underscores the potential of the Nigeria Women’s Football League, with nine home-based players earning their call-ups.

This decision allows Madugu to evaluate the team’s depth and versatility as they prepare for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Notably, four representatives from Edo Queens—goalkeeper Morufa Ademola, defender Miracle Usani, midfielder Amarachi Odoma, and striker Emem Essien—have been selected.

Additionally, Bayelsa Queens contribute two players, goalkeeper Linda Jiwuaku and defender Blessing Ilivieda.

Nasarawa Amazons also have two key players included: defender Sikiratu Isah and midfielder Josephine Mathias. Forward Olamide Bolaji stands out as the sole representative from Remo Stars Ladies.

The squad is enhanced by established overseas-based players, ensuring a balanced mix of experience and youth.

Ajibade, potentially on the brink of a transfer from Atlético Madrid, retains the captain’s armband, supported in midfield by Jennifer Echegini of Paris Saint-Germain and Christy Ucheibe from Benfica.

Deborah Abiodun, who plays for Dallas Trinity in the United States, also strengthens the midfield.

The attacking line is set to be dynamic, featuring Toni Payne of Everton, Ifeoma Onumonu from Montpellier, Rinsola Babajide of Costa Adeje Tenerife, and the returning Francisca Ordega, now with Ittihad Ladies in Saudi Arabia.

In defence, the experienced centre-back Osinachi Ohale, currently playing in Mexico with Pachuca, joins forces with Houston Dash’s Michelle Alozie, Rofiat Imuran from London City Lionesses, and Galatasaray’s Oluwatosin Demehin. Shukurat Oladipo, recently signed with AS Roma, also returns to bolster the defence.

First-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie of Paris FC is anticipated to play a crucial role during the matches, expected to start both fixtures.

The squad will convene in Ijebu-Ode starting May 26, gearing up for their matches against Cameroon on May 31 in Ikenne and June 3 in Abeokuta.

These encounters will serve as an important opportunity for Madugu to assess squad dynamics and readiness ahead of the WAFCON tournament in Morocco, where Nigeria is set to compete in group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.

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