Madugu Unveils Super Falcons Squad for Cameroon Friendlies, Oshoala Misses Out

Head coach Justine Madugu has released a 25-player squad for the upcoming international friendlies between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and the Cameroon women's national team.

The two matches are scheduled to take place in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with the first encounter billed for next Saturday, while the second will hold on Tuesday, March 3.

One of the major talking points from the squad announcement is the absence of star striker Asisat Oshoala, who is the only notable regular missing from the list. However, the team still boasts a strong core of experienced players, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade, dependable goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Ashleigh Plumptre, and forward Esther Okoronkwo.

Veteran defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Deborah Abiodun, as well as winger Michelle Alozie, were also included, reflecting a blend of experience and youthful energy.

The friendlies form part of Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where the Super Falcons will face Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt in Group C.

Opinion: A Strategic Selection with an Eye on the Future

Madugu’s squad selection appears deliberate and forward-thinking. While Oshoala’s absence will certainly attract attention, it may also provide an opportunity to test alternative attacking combinations and evaluate emerging talents ahead of major tournaments. Nigeria has historically relied heavily on a few star players, but building depth is crucial for long-term dominance in African women’s football.

The inclusion of both seasoned leaders like Ohale and Ajibade alongside younger prospects suggests the coaching crew is trying to strike the right balance between continuity and evolution. This approach could be particularly important as African women’s football becomes increasingly competitive, with nations like Zambia and Morocco rapidly improving.

Ultimately, these friendlies against Cameroon are more than routine matches—they are a chance to refine tactics, strengthen team chemistry, and assess squad depth. If used wisely, they could set the foundation for another successful WAFCON campaign and reinforce Nigeria’s status as a continental powerhouse.