Malawi have announced a 32-player provisional squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with star sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga leading the Scorchers ahead of their tournament debut, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Head coach Lovemore Fazili has recalled vice-captain Temwa Chawinga after she missed the team's recent matches, while captain Tabitha Chawinga also headlines the squad as Malawi prepare for their maiden appearance at the continental showpiece.

The provisional list also includes two promising Under-20 players, Takondwa Chinyamvula and Fatima Lali, underlining the coach's desire to blend youth with experience as the Scorchers aim to make a positive impression in Morocco.

Malawi will commence preparations on Sunday at the Mpira Village in Blantyre, with the majority of the foreign-based players expected to report at the start of camp.

However, Faith Chinzimu, Asimenye Simwaka and Temwa Chawinga have been granted extra time and will link up with the squad later during the training programme.

The Scorchers face a daunting challenge after being drawn in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, regional rivals Zambia and former African champions Egypt.

Fazili's side will begin their WAFCON campaign against the Super Falcons at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday, July 28, before taking on Zambia and Egypt in the remaining group fixtures.

The inclusion of the Chawinga sisters is expected to provide Malawi with a significant attacking threat, particularly Tabitha, who has established herself as one of Africa's finest footballers through her performances in European football, while Temwa has also enjoyed an outstanding rise with club and country.

Malawi's 32-player provisional squad

Goalkeepers:

Mercy Sikelo (Civil Service Women), Yamikani Kaonga (MDF Lioness), Esther Maulidi (Mighty Wanderers Queens), Thoko Mwase (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women).

Defenders:

Doreen Dickson (MDF Lioness), Tionge Phiri (Silver Strikers Ladies), Rose Alufandika (Kukoma Ntopwa Queens), Talandira Chinyamvula (Ascent Soccer Academy), Maggie Chavula (Ascent Soccer Academy), Benadetta Mkandawire (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women), Ireen Khumalo (Silver Strikers Ladies), Olivia Phikani (Kukoma Ntopwa Queens), Chimwemwe Madise (TP Mazembe).

Midfielders:

Funny Magombo (Kukoma Ntopwa Queens), Letticia Chinyamula (Ascent Soccer Academy), Rose Smith Kabzere (Montpellier HSC Féminines), Faith Chinzimu (BK Häcken), Chikondi Gondwe (Silver Strikers Ladies), Madyina Nguluwe (Silver Strikers Ladies), Tendai Sani (ZISD), Vanessa Chipikula (Palm Hills Sports Club), Lyna James (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women), Sarah Mlimbika (Green Buffaloes Women), Vitumbiko Mercy Mkandawire (Civil Service Women), Asimenye Simwaka (MDF Lioness).

Forwards:

Sabina Thom (Phoenix Academy Marrakesh), Deborah Henry (Silver Strikers Ladies), Chisomo Banda (Konkola Blades Queens FC), Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current), Tabitha Chawinga (Olympique Lyonnais), Mary Chavinda (FCB Nyasa Big Bullets Women), Fatima Lali (Ascent Soccer Academy).

Former Super Falcons captain Onome Ebi has completed the inaugural FIFA Players Executive Programme, becoming one of the first footballers to graduate from the initiative designed to prepare current and former players for leadership roles in football administration, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The former Nigeria international was among the first cohort of participants to complete the programme, which was established by FIFA to equip players with the knowledge and skills required to transition into executive, governance and administrative positions after their playing careers.

Ebi, widely regarded as one of Nigeria's greatest female footballers, enjoyed an illustrious international career spanning nearly two decades. The experienced defender earned more than 100 caps for the Super Falcons and represented Nigeria at multiple FIFA Women's World Cups and Women's Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Her successful completion of the programme marks another significant milestone in her career as she prepares for a potential future in football leadership beyond her exploits on the pitch.

The FIFA Players Executive Programme focuses on developing participants in key areas such as leadership, strategic management, governance and decision-making, providing former and current players with the tools needed to make meaningful contributions to football administration at club, federation and international levels.

According to the organisers, the initiative was introduced to address the growing need for former footballers to occupy influential leadership positions within the game, ensuring that individuals with firsthand playing experience are actively involved in shaping the future of football.

Ebi's achievement has been widely celebrated as an important milestone for Nigerian and African women's football, serving as an inspiration for other current and retired players to pursue leadership opportunities while continuing to contribute to the growth and development of the sport off the field.

Having built an outstanding legacy as one of Africa's most decorated defenders, Ebi now appears well-positioned to make another meaningful impact on football through administration and governance in the years ahead.

The 2026 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations will usher in a new era for women’s football on the continent when the tournament kicks off in Morocco in 30 days, with the competition expanding from 12 to 16 teams for the first time, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The tournament will get underway on July 26 in Rabat, where hosts Morocco will face Kenya at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium at 9:00 p.m. local time (8:00 p.m. GMT). Earlier on the opening day, Algeria will take on Senegal in the other Group A fixture at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.

In a statement published on its official website, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) described the expanded tournament as a landmark moment in the growth of women's football across Africa.

“Morocco 2026 will mark a significant milestone in the history of the competition, with the final tournament expanding from 12 to 16 participating nations for the first time,” CAF stated.

According to the continental governing body, the expansion is part of its long-term strategy to accelerate the development of the women's game through increased participation, improved competition structures, and greater investment across Africa.

CAF also highlighted the remarkable progress made in women's football over the past five years, noting the significant increase in prize money.

“CAF has made significant progress in growing and developing women's football. Over the last five years, the prize money for the winners of the competition has increased from $150,000 to $1 million under CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe,” the statement added.

The 16 nations that qualified for the tournament are hosts Morocco, defending champions Nigeria, South Africa, Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia.

Matches will be played across five CAF-approved venues in Rabat and Casablanca, namely the Stade Moulay El Hassan, Stade Al Madina, and Stade Olympique in Rabat, as well as the Stade Larbi Zaouli and Stade Moulay Rachid in Casablanca.

Nigeria's Super Falcons will enter the tournament as defending champions after winning a record-extending 10th continental title at the previous edition. However, CAF believes the competition for this year's crown will be fiercer than ever.

“The Super Falcons are expected to face strong competition from across the continent, including hosts Morocco, former champions South Africa, traditional powerhouses such as Cameroon, and emerging contenders including Algeria, Zambia, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire,” CAF said.

Beyond the battle for continental glory, the tournament will also serve as Africa's qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.

CAF confirmed that the four quarter-final winners will automatically qualify for the global tournament, while the four losing quarter-finalists will remain in contention through the FIFA Women's World Cup play-off route.

With the expansion to 16 teams, increased financial investment, and the continued rise in the quality of women's football across the continent, CAF expects Morocco 2026 to be one of the most competitive editions of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in history.

Super Falcons midfielder Christy Ucheibe has officially ended her six-year stay at Portuguese champions Benfica following the expiration of her contract, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 25-year-old joined the Lisbon club from Swedish outfit Assi IF in 2020 and established herself as one of Benfica's most consistent performers during a highly successful spell.

Ucheibe made 179 appearances across all competitions for the Eagles, scoring 11 goals while playing a key role in one of the most dominant periods in the club's history.

During her time at Benfica, the versatile midfielder won an impressive collection of silverware, including six Liga BPI titles, two Portuguese Cups, five League Cups, and two Portuguese Super Cups.

Her departure brings an end to a memorable chapter in Portugal, where she developed into one of Nigeria's leading midfielders and a regular fixture in the Super Falcons setup.

With her club future yet to be decided, Ucheibe is expected to focus on international duty before deciding on her next destination.

The former Nasarawa Amazons star is widely expected to be named in Nigeria's squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Falcons will be aiming to reclaim the continental title.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Malawi women's national football team, Zambia women's national football team, and Egypt women's national football team as preparations continue for next month's tournament.

The National Sports Commission (NSC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has established a seven-member Welfare Committee to oversee the well-being of the Super Falcons during their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The committee will be chaired by Aisha Falode, a member of the NFF Executive Board, while Ruth David will serve as Secretary. Other members include Rt. Hon. Margaret Icheen, Babagana Kalli, Emeka Iyama, Aderonke Tinuoye, and Tobechukwu Oluchi.

Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the initiative reflects the Federal Government's determination to ensure the Super Falcons enjoy a smooth and distraction-free campaign as they bid to retain their continental crown.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu are both fully committed to the team's success, according to Olopade, who stressed that the committee was created to support the NFF in delivering a seamless tournament experience for the players.

"Welfare is a critical aspect of any team's success, and with this committee in place, the players can be assured that both the NSC and NFF are taking their welfare seriously throughout the competition," Olopade stated.

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, described the formation of the committee as another milestone in the growing partnership between the NSC and the football federation.

Sanusi noted that it is the first time a dedicated welfare committee has been established for the Super Falcons ahead of a major international tournament, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening women's football in Nigeria.

"For us at the NFF, this demonstrates the level of commitment the NSC is showing towards women's football, and it will only help the women's game continue to grow rapidly in the country," Sanusi said.

He added that the committee's role is not to interfere with the responsibilities of officials already attached to the team but to ensure that the Falcons have a smooth and successful campaign in Morocco.

The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia women's national football team, Egypt women's national football team, and debutants Malawi women's national football team.

Nigeria will begin their quest for another continental title against Malawi on July 28 at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations will take place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, with the Super Falcons aiming to successfully defend their crown.

The English Women's Super League has applauded Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie following her impressive performances for Brighton & Hove Albion Women during the just-concluded campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nnadozie joined Brighton last summer from French side Paris FC and quickly established herself as one of the club's most influential players with a series of outstanding displays between the posts.

The Nigeria international enjoyed a remarkable debut season in England, making 62 saves and keeping six clean sheets as Brighton competed in the Women's Super League.

Her consistent performances and commanding presence in goal earned widespread admiration, with the Women's Super League recognising her contributions throughout the campaign.

Nnadozie's smooth transition to English football further reinforces her reputation as one of Africa's finest goalkeepers and a key figure for the Super Falcons.

The 25-year-old has continued to enhance her growing profile on the international stage, building on the form that previously saw her emerge as one of the standout goalkeepers in European women's football during her time with Paris FC.

Her performances for Brighton will also provide a major boost for the Super Falcons as they continue preparations for upcoming international competitions, with Nnadozie expected to remain a crucial part of the team's plans for years to come.

The Super Falcons of Nigeria produced a strong second-half performance to defeat Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses 3-0 in an international friendly at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

After a goalless but lively first half, Nigeria took full control of the contest following the restart, turning dominance into goals in front of their home supporters.

The breakthrough arrived in the 48th minute when Shukurat Oladipo delivered a precise cross that was met by Joy Omewa, who powered in a header to give the hosts a deserved lead.

Omewa doubled her tally seven minutes later, in the 55th minute, showing strength and composure to break through the Senegal defence before finishing clinically to make it 2-0.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade then added creativity to the scoreboard in the 66th minute, driving forward before setting up substitute Asisat Oshoala, who calmly slotted home to complete the 3-0 victory.

The result underlined Nigeria’s attacking depth and second-half intensity, with the Falcons turning a tight first period into a commanding win.

The performance provides further encouragement for the reigning champions as they continue preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Moses Aduku believes Nigeria’s women's national under-20 football team will face a less difficult challenge in the second leg of their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Malawi's women's national under-20 football team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Falconets head into Saturday’s decisive encounter in Malawi with a comfortable 2-0 advantage from the first leg and remain on course to qualify for the tournament scheduled to hold in Poland from September 5 to 27.

Speaking ahead of the return fixture, Aduku stated that Malawi would be forced to attack in search of goals, a situation he believes will favour his side.

“We will not go defensive, rather we will take the game to them to see if we can get goals, and I know my girls can do that,” Aduku said.

“We know the opponent will not sit back; they will come out to play. Definitely, I think it will be easier in Malawi because if they sit back, and we can create chances like this in the first leg, we lost a lot of scoring chances. Now they will come out to play, and definitely we will have chances to score.”

The coach also expressed confidence in his team’s defensive organisation and goalkeeping strength ahead of the encounter.

“I think our defence is not bad and our goalkeeper is not that bad, so we are on course,” he added.

The Falconets boast an impressive qualification history, having never failed to reach the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since the competition was introduced. Malawi, meanwhile, are aiming to secure a historic first-ever appearance at the biennial tournament.

Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons, will take on either Sudan or Comoros in the second round of the qualifiers for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, following the official draw released by the Confederation of African Football, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Sudan and Comoros are set to meet in the first round, with the winner advancing to face Nigeria in the next phase of the qualification series.

The second-round fixtures are scheduled to be played between October 5 and October 13, 2026, marking the Super Falcons’ entry point into the race for a place at the global showpiece.

As one of Africa’s most successful women’s national teams, the Super Falcons will be aiming to overcome their yet-to-be-confirmed opponents and take a significant step toward securing another Olympic appearance.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will discover their opponents in the race to qualify for the 2028 Summer Olympics on Wednesday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The draw for the African qualifying series will take place on April 29, 2026, at the headquarters of the Confederation of African Football in Cairo. The ceremony will outline the qualification pathway for teams across the continent aiming to secure one of Africa’s slots at the global tournament.

Africa’s representatives will emerge through a competitive qualifying process, with nations battling over multiple rounds for a place at the Games, scheduled to be hosted in Los Angeles, United States.

The Super Falcons, widely regarded as one of the most dominant forces in African women’s football, are expected to be among the leading contenders. The nine-time continental champions will be targeting a return to the Olympic stage after missing out on recent editions.

With the draw set to define their route, attention will turn to how Nigeria navigates the qualifiers in pursuit of another appearance on the global stage.

Esther Okoronkwo delivered a standout performance to earn Player of the Match honours as AFC Toronto secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Vancouver Rise in their season opener, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian forward contributed a goal and an assist in the encounter played at the Swangard Stadium, helping her side complete a comeback from 2-1 down.

Okoronkwo played a key role in turning the game around, setting up Sarah Stratigakis for the equaliser early in the second half before firing home the decisive goal 18 minutes from time.

The 29-year-old was later substituted in the 84th minute for Kaila Novak after an influential display.

Okoronkwo’s latest performance builds on an impressive record from last season, where she registered 11 goals and eight assists in 29 appearances for AFC Toronto, underlining her importance to the team’s attacking setup.

Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Super Falcons, has moved up one spot to 36th in the latest FIFA Women’s World Rankings released on Tuesday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The slight rise comes despite limited activity during the ranking period, with Nigeria missing one of the international windows under review. In the previous rankings published in December 2025, the Falcons were placed 37th globally.

During the period in focus, the team played a two-match friendly series against the Cameroon women's national football team in March, losing the first encounter before bouncing back to secure victory in the return leg a few days later.

Nigeria remains the highest-ranked team in Africa, maintaining a significant gap ahead of the South Africa women's national football team, who sit 58th in the world. The Ghana women's national football team, Morocco women's national football team, and Zambia women's national football team complete the continent’s top five.

On the global stage, the Spain women's national football team retained top spot, followed by the United States women's national soccer team. The England women's national football team climbed to third, overtaking the Germany women's national football team, while the Japan women's national football team moved up to fifth after surpassing the Sweden women's national football team, France women's national football team, and Brazil women's national football team.

The next FIFA Women’s World Rankings update is scheduled for June 16, as teams continue preparations for upcoming international competitions.

Chiamaka Nnadozie has publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the Nigeria Football Federation over what she perceives as inadequate preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Super Falcons goalkeeper, who recently joined Brighton & Hove Albion, took to her Instagram story to react to an announcement involving the men’s national team.

The NFF had earlier confirmed that the Super Eagles will participate in the 2026 Unity Cup, a four-nation invitational tournament set to take place in London. The competition, scheduled between May 26 and May 30 at Charlton Athletic’s The Valley, will feature Jamaica, Zimbabwe, and India, with the team led by head coach Eric Chelle.

In response, Nnadozie reposted the announcement with a sarcastic caption: “So Eagles get another AFCON for July?”—a remark widely interpreted as criticism of the federation’s priorities.

Her reaction has brought attention to growing concerns within the Super Falcons camp over the apparent lack of clear planning ahead of WAFCON. While the Super Eagles have confirmed fixtures, venues, and opponents for upcoming engagements, there has been no official communication outlining similar preparations for the women’s team ahead of a major continental tournament.

The situation has sparked debate among fans and stakeholders, raising questions about the level of support and organisational focus given to the Super Falcons compared to their male counterparts as they gear up for one of Africa’s biggest women’s football competitions.

Ashleigh Plumptre has criticised the decision by the Confederation of African Football to postpone the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

CAF announced on Thursday that the competition will now take place between July 25 and August 16, explaining that the postponement will give both the governing body and the host nation more time to prepare and organise a better tournament.

However, the Nigerian women's national football team defender expressed disappointment over the late decision, questioning why such a change would be made so close to the competition.

“It just wouldn’t happen for other tournaments in women’s football, especially in men’s football,” Plumptre told the BBC.

“The last WAFCON wasn’t less important because it wasn’t a qualification for a World Cup, but obviously this is a chance for teams to qualify for the World Cup.”

“It’s the first time the tournament will have 16 teams, all of which will want the chance to qualify for the World Cup, and that’s a big deal for many teams.

“Many teams haven’t even played at WAFCON before and have never had the opportunity to qualify for a World Cup. It also helps them financially.”

The 2026 edition of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations is set to be moved to July following uncertainty surrounding the initial schedule, Nigeriasoccernet.com understands.

The tournament was originally planned to take place between March 17 and April 3 in Morocco, but preparations and organisational concerns have raised doubts about the competition starting as scheduled.

While the Confederation of African Football has yet to issue an official statement, reports suggest the continental football body has internally decided to postpone the tournament.

According to emerging details, CAF is now considering staging the competition from July 25 to August 16, shortly after the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place between June 11 and July 19.

An official announcement regarding the new dates is expected soon from CAF. However, uncertainty still surrounds the host nation.

On Wednesday, Gayton McKenzie, the Sports Minister of South Africa, increased pressure on Morocco by declaring that his country is ready to step in and host the tournament should Morocco decide to withdraw.

Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, the Nigeria women's national football team, has returned to the country amid lingering uncertainty over the scheduling of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeriasoccernet.com understands.

The Confederation of African Football is yet to confirm whether the tournament will go ahead as originally planned in Morocco. The competition, which doubles as Africa’s qualification route to the FIFA Women's World Cup, was initially slated to run from March 17 to April 3, 2026. However, with less than two weeks to the proposed kickoff, CAF has not released any formal communication validating the dates.

Key pre-tournament processes, including media accreditation, official announcements, and clear indications of host readiness, have also failed to materialise, further deepening speculation about a possible postponement.

The Super Falcons had initially intended to travel straight from Cameroon to Morocco after concluding their two-legged international friendly matches. That journey was meant to signal the commencement of their official WAFCON training camp.

According to a source close to the squad, the revised travel plan was influenced by the prevailing uncertainty surrounding the tournament.

“The initial plan was for the team to travel from Cameroon to Morocco for the official WAFCON camping. However, due to the uncertainty surrounding the tournament’s postponement, the team was instructed to return home after the match against Cameroon.

“Had the team proceeded directly to Morocco for camping, Anderline and the other players would have joined the squad ahead of the coach’s final selection for the tournament.

“Once it became clear that the team would return after the friendly against Cameroon, there was no justification for traveling with four goalkeepers for a friendly. It is therefore understood that some players were exempted, likely due to their other commitments.”

As of the time of filing this report, CAF has yet to issue an official statement clarifying the status of the tournament, leaving participating nations awaiting further direction.

Reigning African champions Nigeria women's national football team will aim to bounce back when they face the Cameroon women's national football team in the second of their two pre-WAFCON international friendlies on Tuesday at the Military Stadium in Yaounde, NigeriaSoccernet.com gathered.

The Super Falcons fell to a narrow 1–0 defeat in Saturday’s first meeting, conceding deep into stoppage time in what many observers considered a timely wake-up call ahead of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Cameroon, who are drawn in Group D alongside Ghana, Mali, and Cape Verde, sealed victory through a late long-range effort from Yvana Mbomezomo, whose strike beat debutant goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor.

Despite conceding, Erhabor delivered an encouraging performance on her international debut, showing composure and confidence throughout the contest.

Head Coach Justin Madugu introduced several second-half substitutes in search of an equaliser, including Joy Omewa, Precious Christopher, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Onyenezide, and Michelle Alozie. However, Cameroon goalkeeper Ange Bawou produced a standout display to keep the Falcons at bay.

Tuesday’s fixture wraps up the two-match arrangement between both football federations as preparations intensify for the continental finals. Madugu is expected to tweak his tactics and possibly rotate his squad in pursuit of a stronger showing.

First-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie could return to the starting lineup, while Alozie may feature from the outset alongside defenders Oluwatosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, and Glory Ogbonna.

In midfield, options remain plentiful with Onyenezide, Christopher, Christy Ucheibe, Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, and Jennifer Echegini all available for selection.

Upfront, captain Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to spearhead the attack, supported by Gift Monday, Rinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Ijamilusi.

With the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching, the Falcons will see Tuesday’s encounter as a vital opportunity to sharpen their preparations and restore confidence before the tournament kicks off.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons suffered a slight setback in their build-up to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after losing narrowly to Cameroon women's national football team in an international friendly on Saturday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The match, staged in Yaoundé, formed part of both teams’ preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to be held in Morocco. It proved to be a closely fought contest, with both sides creating chances in a balanced and competitive encounter.

Despite the evenly matched proceedings, it was the hosts who found the breakthrough late on, netting the decisive goal to edge the tie and claim victory in front of their supporters.

For the Super Falcons, the defeat offers valuable lessons as the technical crew continues to assess the squad, refine tactical approaches, and build cohesion ahead of the continental showpiece.

Both sides are expected to face off again next weekend at the same venue as preparations intensify.

Three players initially omitted from the provisional list have now reported to the Super Falcons’ training camp in Yaoundé, increasing the number of players in camp to 17, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Forwards Favour Nwokocha and Esther Onyenezide, alongside defender Kafayat Shittu, were not part of the original 23-player squad unveiled by the Nigeria Football Federation. However, the trio have now linked up with the squad at the Hilton Hotel in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Earlier on Thursday, the NFF confirmed the arrival of 17 players, including the three previously unlisted names, as preparations intensify for two international friendly matches against Cameroon’s senior women’s national team. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade is among those already settled in camp.

Both friendly encounters will take place at the Military Stadium in Yaoundé on Saturday, 28 February, and Tuesday, 3 March. The matches form part of preparations for the 14th edition of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to be hosted by Morocco from 17 March to 3 April 2026.

Nigeria, record 10-time champions and defending title holders, have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt, and debutants Malawi. The Super Falcons will begin their campaign against Malawi on 18 March in Casablanca. Cameroon, finalists in 2016, are placed in Group D with Ghana, Mali, and debutants Cape Verde, and will open their tournament against Mali in Fes.

Among the early arrivals in camp is Canada-based midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, marking her return to the national setup. Also present are goalkeepers Comfort Erhabor and Fatima Oloko; defenders Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Shukurat Oladipo, and Shittu; midfielders Christy Ucheibe, Onyenezide, Precious Christopher, and Jennifer Echegini; as well as forwards Gift Monday, Joy Omewa, Nwokocha, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Rinsola Babajide.

The team trained on Wednesday at the annex of the Stade Omnisport Ahmadou Ahidjo and is scheduled for another session at the main bowl on Thursday evening, the same venue where Nigeria defeated Cameroon 1–0 in the final of the 2016 Women’s AFCON.

Israel-based defender Sikiratu Isah is expected to join the squad before Thursday’s training. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie, along with forward Chinwendu Ihezuo, are also expected at the team’s hotel after concluding club duties.

Meanwhile, Mexico-based wing-back Chidinma Okeke and midfielder Halimatu Ayinde are anticipated in Yaoundé on Friday as preparations continue for the upcoming continental tournament.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, alongside Oluwatosin Demehin, Christy Ucheibe, Monday Gift, and Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, has arrived in camp as the Nigerian women's national football team intensifies preparations for their international friendlies against the Cameroon women's national football team in Yaoundé, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

Also among the early arrivals are Ogbonna Glory, Christopher Precious, Omewa Joy, Onyenezide Esther, Oloko Fatima, and Nkwocha Favour, with 14 more players still expected to join the squad.

Head coach Justine Madugu’s side is scheduled to hold its first training session later tonight as preparations gather momentum. The Super Falcons will take on the Indomitable Lionesses in the first friendly on Saturday in Yaoundé, before clashing again in a second encounter next Tuesday.

Both matches form part of Nigeria’s build-up to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C alongside Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt, while Cameroon will compete in Group D with Cape Verde, Ghana, and Mali.

Players Currently in Camp

Rasheedat Ajibade

Oluwatosin Demehin

Christy Ucheibe

Monday Gift

Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene

Ogbonna Glory

Christopher Precious

Omewa Joy

Onyenezide Esther

Oloko Fatima

Nkwocha Favour

With preparations underway, the Super Falcons will be aiming to sharpen their cohesion and tactical approach ahead of the continental showpiece.