Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu has unveiled a 23-player squad for June’s friendlies against Senegal, recalling Gift Monday and Ngozi Okobi while notable names including Ashleigh Plumptre and Michelle Alozie miss out.
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has recalled forward Gift Monday to Nigeria’s squad for June international friendlies against Senegal, while high profile defenders Ashleigh Plumptre and Michelle Alozie are among the notable absentees from the 23 to player list.
The squad, unveiled ahead of the two matches scheduled for June 5 and June 8 at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State, offers fresh insight into Madugu’s plans as preparations continue for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Gift Monday’s inclusion is arguably the biggest talking point from the list.
After missing WAFCON 2024 in Morocco, Gift Mondays returns for Nigeria Senegal friendly.
The forward was absent from the squad named for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations but has now earned a return to the national team setup following her impressive performances at club level.
Veteran midfielder Ngozi Okobi is another notable returnee, bringing experience and leadership back into the squad as Madugu blends established stars with fresh options ahead of a crucial period for the nine-time African champions.
Africa’s top ranked goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie headlines the goalkeeping department alongside Comfort Erhabor and Anderline Mgbechi.
In defence, Madugu has retained key names such as Oluwatosin Demehin, Shukurat Oladipo and Sikiratu Isah, while Glory Ogbonna, Blessing Ilivieda and Rofiat Imuran also earn places in the squad.
Ashleigh Plumptre against Tunisia in Wafcon 2024. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
The absence of Ashleigh Plumptre, Michelle Alozie and experienced defender Osinachi Ohale, however, is likely to generate discussion among supporters.
Midfield responsibilities will once again fall on captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne and Halimatu Ayinde, with Ngozi Okobi and Kafayat Shittu also included.
Ajibade and Echegini are expected to play key creative roles as Nigeria continue preparations for continental assignments in the coming months.
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Up front, six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala leads the attacking unit.
She is joined by Francisca Ordega, Omorinsola Babajide, Folashade Ijamilusi, Gift Monday, Blessing Nkor and Joy Omewa in a forward line packed with pace, experience and goalscoring potential.
The squad also features several players who were not part of the previous WAFCON list, suggesting Madugu is keen to assess additional options and build competition across multiple positions.
Super Falcons of Nigeria Vs Cameroon in previous during a friendly match.
The friendlies against Senegal is valuable after the Super Falcons suffered a setback in their preparations when a proposed international friendly against Jamaica was cancelled earlier this year.
Nigeria have not enjoyed a busy international schedule in recent months, making the two matches against Senegal a valuable opportunity for Madugu to evaluate his squad, test combinations and sharpen tactical plans ahead of future competitions.
With Oshoala, Ajibade, Nnadozie and Echegini leading a squad that mixes experience with emerging talent, the Super Falcons will be aiming to make a strong statement when they face Senegal in Ikenne next month.
Super Falcons Squad vs Senegal
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Anderline Mgbechi.
Defenders: Oluwatosin Demehin, Blessing Ilivieda, Rofiat Imuran, Shukurat Oladipo, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isah, Christy Ucheibe.
Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde, Rasheedat Ajibade, Ngozi Okobi, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini, Kafayat Shittu.
Forwards: Folashade Ijamilusi, Francisca Ordega, Omorinsola Babajide, Gift Monday, Blessing Nkor, Asisat Oshoala, Joy Omewa.
