Falconets coach Aduku names 26 for Senegal tie

Falconets head coach Moses Aduku has named a 26-player squad as Nigeria step up preparations for their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup third-round qualifiers against Senegal.

The squad, dominated by players from the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), features standout names like Bayelsa Queens forward Janet Akekoromowei and Nasarawa Amazons midfielder Joy Igbokwe, alongside several players promoted from the national U-17 side, including Shakirat Abidemi Moshood.

The announcement follows CAF approval for the NFF to move the first-leg match from Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan to MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta, due to concerns over the playing surface. The first leg kicks off on Saturday, 7 February 2026, with the return fixture scheduled for 14 February at Stade Lat-Dior, Thiès, Senegal.

Nigeria, two-time FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup silver medallists, advanced to this stage after a 5–0 aggregate win over Rwanda. The team has already relocated to Abeokuta and recorded a 2–1 friendly victory over FC Robo Queens in preparation for Senegal.

Squad list

Goalkeepers: Uzoma Christiana Ijeoma (Edo Queens), Opara Onyinyechi Jacklin (Delta Queens), Jane Bubemi Ijirigho of (Nasarawa Amazons).

Defenders: Ezekwugo Chiamaka Esther (Bayelsa Queens), Sandra John Nwibe (Rivers Angels), Yusuf Mistura Motunrayo (FC Robo Queens), Abdulwahab Farida Opeyemi, Ohaegbulem Oluchi (Nasarawa Amazons), Ayoade Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies), Adeshina Tumininu Fatimoh and Adegbemile Rebecca (Edo Queens), and Iheoma Chinyere (Bayelsa Queens).

Midfielders: Afolabi Taiwo Tewogbola, Otubo Patience (Rivers Angels), Joy Igbokwe (Nasarawa Amazons), Nkwocha Favour Chiamaka (FC Robo Queens), and Kafayat Oluwatosin Mafisere (Edo Queens).

Forwards: Nwachukwu Chisom Monica, Ramotalahi Kareem (Rivers Angels), Moshood Shakirat Abidemi, Janet Akekoromowei, and Alaba Olabiyi (Bayelsa Queens), Ayantosho Yetunde Zarat (Pacesetter Queens), Ifeanyi Kindness Chinaza (Bayelsa Queens), and Oscar Precious Chiemerie, Mamudu Mary (Edo Queens).

Head coach Aduku expressed satisfaction with the squad’s commitment in camp, highlighting the importance of securing a strong first-leg result at home to set the tone for the return fixture in Senegal

Culled from vanguard