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Justine Madugu

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has defended his selection decisions involving forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Asisat Oshoala as Nigeria prepares to defend its Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco.

Madugu selected both players in Nigeria’s 25-player squad for the 2026 WAFCON, ending speculation over their availability for the continental championship.

Oshoala, one of Africa’s most decorated female footballers, was included alongside Okoronkwo, who has also become an increasingly important attacking option for the Super Falcons.

The selection comes after earlier debates surrounding the balance between experience and current form in the Super Falcons attack.

Oshoala brings considerable international experience to the squad, having won the CAF African Women’s Player of the Year award six times and established herself as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable footballers.

Okoronkwo, meanwhile, has impressed with her pace, movement and ability to operate in attacking positions and has increasingly featured in important matches for the national team.

Madugu’s approach reflects a desire to maintain a blend of experienced players and younger attacking options as Nigeria targets a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.

Both players were named among the forwards in the 25-player squad released for the tournament. Other attacking options include Francisca Ordega, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Omorinsola Babajide, Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu.

The decision to retain Oshoala also demonstrates the value Madugu places on experience, particularly in a tournament where Nigeria will face strong opposition in the group stage.

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Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and debutants Malawi, with the Super Falcons entering the competition as defending champions.

The tournament is being staged in Morocco from late July to August 16, 2026, giving Nigeria another opportunity to extend its record as Africa’s most successful women’s national team.

Madugu’s selection decisions have also been shaped by the need to have multiple tactical options in attack. The inclusion of both Oshoala and Okoronkwo provides the coach with different qualities that can be deployed depending on the opposition and match situation.

Oshoala’s experience and physical presence can offer Nigeria an additional attacking outlet, while Okoronkwo provides energy and mobility in the final third.

The coach’s squad announcement also attracted attention because some established players were omitted, including defender Ashleigh Plumptre, underlining the competitive nature of selection for the defending champions.

With Nigeria targeting another continental crown, Madugu will be expected to manage the balance between established stars and emerging players throughout the tournament.

The eventual success of the attacking combination will depend not only on individual performances but also on how effectively the coaching staff integrates the players into Nigeria’s overall tactical approach.

The Traffic NG
Justine Madugu
Amarachi Ihesiulo
The Traffic NG

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