Gift Monday Snubbed as Oshoala, Ajibade Lead Super Falcons Against Benin Republic

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have released their official 21-woman squad ahead of their final-round 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifying clash against Benin Republic, but one major talking point has taken center stage: Gift Monday has been left out again.

Head coach Justin Madugu unveiled the list featuring a mix of experienced internationals and home-based talents, with several familiar names making the cut. However, the absence of Gift Monday, has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

🧤 Goalkeepers

Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England)

Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)

Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)

Nnadozie, now plying her trade in England, remains the undisputed No.1 for Nigeria, while Rivers Angels’ Mgbechi and Nasarawa’s Unachukwu offer strong local competition.

🛡️ Defenders

Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Club de Futbol, Mexico)

Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy)

Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA)

Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies FC, Saudi Arabia)

Blessing Ilivieda (Bayelsa Queens)

Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey)

Miracle Usani (Abia Angels)

Madugu’s defensive lineup combines experience and versatility. Ohale’s leadership and Plumptre’s composure will be key as the Falcons aim to maintain defensive solidity against the Squirrels of Benin.

⚙️ Midfielders

Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint Germain, France)

Taiwo Afolabi (Rivers Angels)

Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA)

Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France)

Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal)

Paris-based duo Ajibade and Echegini headline a creative midfield that balances youth and experience. Abiodun and Ucheibe are expected to add steel and control in the center of the park.

⚡ Forwards

Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Club de Futbol, Mexico)

Joy Omeva (Fortuna Hjorring FC, Denmark)

Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada)

Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal FC, Saudi Arabia)

Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang, China)

Kafayat Mafisere (Edo Queens)

All eyes will be on Asisat Oshoala, who leads the attack alongside Europe-based striker Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The inclusion of Kafayat Mafisere from Edo Queens adds local flavor to the frontline.

Gift Monday’s omission has drawn mixed reactions from fans on social media. Many expected the talented forward to make the squad after her impressive performances this season. While no official reason has been stated, Coach Madugu’s decision suggests a possible tactical reshuffle or a focus on newer attacking options.

The absence of Gift Monday means the Falcons will rely heavily on the attacking trio of Oshoala, Ajibade, and Ihezuo for creativity and goals.

Nigeria, Ten times WAFCON champions, will face Benin Republic in a two-legged qualifier, with the first leg scheduled to take place in Cotonou before the return leg in Nigeria. A win across both legs will seal the Falcons’ ticket to Morocco 2026.

Following an inspiring 2024 (2025) AFCON campaign, the Super Falcons are determined to maintain their dominance in African football and continue their journey to remain the continental Champion.