LOMÉ, Togo — Nigeria’s Super Falcons have begun preparations in the Togolese capital ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final qualifying fixture against Benin, with six-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala among the first to arrive at camp.
The reigning continental champions will face their West African neighbors in the first leg of the qualifier on Friday at the 25,000-capacity Stade de Kégué in Lomé. The match kicks off at 3 p.m. local time (4 p.m. Nigeria time).
Oshoala, who currently plays for Al Hilal FC in Saudi Arabia, was joined by Denmark-based forward Joy Omewa, Turkey-based defender Tosin Demehin, and China-based striker Folashade Ijamilusi. Five home-based players also reported early, including goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defenders Blessing Ilivieda and Miracle Usani, midfielder Taiwo Afolabi, and forward Kafayat Mafisere.
Head Coach Justine Madugu confirmed that training sessions would commence Monday afternoon as the team gears up for the crucial fixture. The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
The Confederation of African Football has appointed Gambian referee Ngum Fatou to officiate Friday’s match, supported by assistant referees Mariem Chedad and Hamedine Houleye from Mauritania. Gambian official Isatou Touray will serve as fourth official, while Niger’s Halimatou Hamidou has been named match commissioner. Martha Nyekanyeka of Malawi will act as referee assessor.
The WAFCON tournament, set to be hosted by Morocco in 2026, doubles as Africa’s qualifying event for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria’s 23-player squad features a blend of international experience and domestic talent. Notable call-ups include Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion), Rasheedat Ajibade and Jennifer Echegini (both of Paris Saint-Germain), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash), and Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC).
The Super Falcons, nine-time WAFCON champions, are aiming to secure their spot in Morocco and continue their dominance on the continent while building momentum toward the global stage.
