Nigeria’s 23-woman squad for the upcoming friendlies against Cameroon has been unveiled, but the spotlight isn’t just on who made the cut—it’s also on who didn’t.
While the team boasts a mix of seasoned stars and fresh talent, the absence of some big names has left fans questioning the selection process.
The squad sees the inclusion of rising stars like Remo Stars Ladies’ Bolaji Olamide and Edo Queens’ Ennem Essien, both earning their first national team call-ups after impressive domestic performances.
NWFL trio Blessing Ilevida, Matthias Josephine, and Miracle Usani also make their debuts, signaling a potential shift toward blending youth with experience.
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Veterans like captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and midfielder Jennifer Echegini (PSG) remain key pillars, while Francisca Ordega makes a surprising return after missing recent tournaments.
However, the omission of Barcelona’s Asisat Oshoala—Nigeria’s most decorated female footballer—has dominated discussions.
Also missing is defender Ashleigh Plumptre, a consistent performer, and in-form striker Gift Monday, who has been prolific this season.
Granada’s Edna Imade, with 16 goals in Spain, continues to be overlooked, deepening concerns about the selection criteria.
With interim coach Justin Madugu opting for a mix of youth and experience, questions linger over whether this squad has the firepower to reclaim Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football.
The Super Falcons, once unstoppable in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), last lifted the trophy in 2018—now, South Africa holds the crown.
Super Falcons ‘oyingbo’ defender Ashleigh Plumptre
These matches against Cameroon—set for May 31 in Ikenne and June 3 in Abeokuta—will be Nigeria’s first since a narrow 2-1 defeat to France in December 2023.
With WAFCON 2025 looming and a tough group featuring Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, these friendlies are more than just preparation—they’re a chance for Madugu to prove his decisions are justified.
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Will the new-look Falcons soar, or will the missing stars prove to be a costly gamble? The matches against Cameroon may provide early answers.
