Super Falcons Announce Youthful Squad for Cameroon Friendlies
The Nigeria Football Federation has released a 23-player roster for the Super Falcons' upcoming friendly matches against Cameroon's Indomitable Lionesses, scheduled for May 30 in Ikenne and June 3 in Abeokuta. Notably absent is star striker Asisat Oshoala, indicating a strategic shift towards integrating younger talent.
Head coach Justin Madugu has assembled a squad with an average age below 26, blending experienced players like captains Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rasheedat Ajibade with emerging talents. Veteran forward Francisca Ordega returns to the team, while Omorinsola Babajide earns a recall following impressive club performances.
Surprisingly, Edna Imade, who scored 16 goals for Granada this season, has been omitted, raising questions among fans and analysts. In contrast, standout performers from the Nigeria Women Football League, such as Cordelia Odoma and Blessing Ilivieda, have been included, reflecting Madugu's commitment to rewarding domestic league excellence.
These friendlies serve as crucial preparation for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where Nigeria aims to rebound from a semi-final loss to the host nation in the previous edition. The Super Falcons are grouped with Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana in Group B.
Editorial
The Super Falcons' latest squad announcement marks a significant moment in Nigerian women's football. By prioritising youth and domestic league talent, Coach Justin Madugu signals a forward-thinking approach aimed at long-term success.
The exclusion of Asisat Oshoala, while surprising, opens opportunities for emerging players to step into leadership roles. This decision underscores a commitment to building a resilient team capable of adapting and thriving in high stakes competitions.
The Nigeria Football Federation has released a 23-player roster for the Super Falcons' upcoming friendly matches against Cameroon's Indomitable Lionesses, scheduled for May 30 in Ikenne and June 3 in Abeokuta. Notably absent is star striker Asisat Oshoala, indicating a strategic shift towards integrating younger talent.
Head coach Justin Madugu has assembled a squad with an average age below 26, blending experienced players like captains Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rasheedat Ajibade with emerging talents. Veteran forward Francisca Ordega returns to the team, while Omorinsola Babajide earns a recall following impressive club performances.
Surprisingly, Edna Imade, who scored 16 goals for Granada this season, has been omitted, raising questions among fans and analysts. In contrast, standout performers from the Nigeria Women Football League, such as Cordelia Odoma and Blessing Ilivieda, have been included, reflecting Madugu's commitment to rewarding domestic league excellence.
These friendlies serve as crucial preparation for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where Nigeria aims to rebound from a semi-final loss to the host nation in the previous edition. The Super Falcons are grouped with Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana in Group B.
Editorial
The Super Falcons' latest squad announcement marks a significant moment in Nigerian women's football. By prioritising youth and domestic league talent, Coach Justin Madugu signals a forward-thinking approach aimed at long-term success.
The exclusion of Asisat Oshoala, while surprising, opens opportunities for emerging players to step into leadership roles. This decision underscores a commitment to building a resilient team capable of adapting and thriving in high stakes competitions.