Nine-time African champions, the Super Falcons of Nigeria, have landed in Casablanca, Morocco, ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), scheduled to take place from July 5 to 26.
A contingent of seven players, including U.S.-based stars Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, and Deborah Abiodun, touched down in Casablanca on Tuesday. They were joined by Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, and newly invited forward Chioma Okafor.
The rest of the squad, who featured in a goalless friendly against Portugal on Monday, are expected to arrive in Morocco today (Wednesday) from Lisbon. Coach Justin Madugu had 17 players available for that encounter, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie—Africa’s reigning Goalkeeper of the Year—delivering a stellar performance to preserve the clean sheet. Forward Francisca Ordega came closest to securing a win, striking the crossbar late in the game.
The Super Falcons will continue their preparations with a high-profile friendly against regional rivals Ghana’s Black Queens on Sunday, June 29. The Black Queens are currently holding a 14-day training camp in Benslimane, Morocco, as part of their build-up to the tournament.
Nigeria, the most successful team in the competition’s history with nine titles from 12 editions since the tournament’s inception in 1998, will be eyeing a record-extending 10th crown. The Falcons are drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria, with all group matches set to take place at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The team will begin their WAFCON campaign on Sunday, July 6, against Tunisia.