Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has named a strong starting XI for Nigeria’s opening Group B match against Malawi at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, as the defending champions begin their quest for a record-extending 11th continental title.
Madugu has entrusted a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talents to kick-start Nigeria’s title defence, with first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie returning between the sticks and captain Rasheedat Ajibade leading the team’s attack. Blueprint reports
The encounter against tournament debutants Malawi presents the Super Falcons with an opportunity to make an early statement in the championship as they seek to reaffirm their dominance in African women’s football. Blueprint reports
Madugu sticks with experienced core
The Nigerian coach has retained the backbone of the squad that has delivered consistent performances in recent international competitions, combining defensive stability with attacking flair.
In goal, Africa’s multiple award-winning goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will once again shoulder the responsibility of keeping the Malawian attack at bay.
The defence will feature veteran centre-back Osinachi Ohale alongside Tosin Demehin, while Michelle Alozie and Shukurat Oladipo occupy the full-back positions.
The quartet will be expected to provide defensive discipline while also supporting Nigeria’s attacking play from wide areas.
Midfield tasked with dictating play
In midfield, the experienced Halimatu Ayinde has been handed the responsibility of anchoring the team, bringing composure, leadership and tactical discipline to the centre of the park.
She will partner Jennifer Echegini, whose energy, creativity and ability to drive forward have made her one of the team’s key players.
The duo will be expected to dominate possession, disrupt Malawi’s rhythm and create scoring opportunities for the attacking players.
Powerful attack to lead title defence
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade headlines Nigeria’s attack alongside Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi and Esther Okoronkwo in what promises to be an exciting frontline.
Ajibade, one of the team’s most influential players, will be expected to provide leadership, pace and creativity from the attacking areas.
Okoronkwo enters the tournament in impressive form following a string of outstanding performances for club and country and will be one of Nigeria’s biggest attacking threats against Malawi.
Ihezuo’s intelligent movement and finishing ability add another dimension to the Super Falcons’ attack, while Ijamilusi’s pace and direct running provide further options in the final third.
The combination gives Nigeria a versatile frontline capable of creating and converting chances from different positions.
Opportunity to make early statement
The clash offers Madugu another opportunity to assess his squad while laying down an early marker in the competition.
Nigeria enters the tournament as the most successful nation in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won the title a record 10 times.
Victory over Malawi would provide the perfect start to the Super Falcons’ campaign before more demanding Group B fixtures against Zambia and Egypt.
The coaching crew will also be hoping for a convincing performance that boosts confidence as the tournament progresses into the knockout stages.
Nigeria’s starting XI
Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Shukurat Oladipo.
Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde, Jennifer Echegini.
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain), Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi and Esther Okoronkwo.
With a squad packed with experience, quality and attacking firepower, the Super Falcons will head into the encounter as favourites to claim all three points and begin their campaign on a winning note as they chase another historic WAFCON triumph in Morocco.