Falcons recall Okobi-Okeoghene, Monday for Cameroon friendlies

Midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene and forward Gift Monday have returned to the Super Falcons squad after head coach Justine Madugu named a 25-player list for this month’s friendly matches against Cameroon.

The nine-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions will face the Indomitable Lionesses in a two-match friendly in Yaoundé on February 28 and March 4.

Okobi-Okeoghene last featured for Nigeria at the 2022 WAFCON, while Monday was omitted from the squad to the 2024 WAFCON held in 2025 in Morocco.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo were also included in the squad.

England-based goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor earned her first call-up, while defender Chidinma Okeke returns to the team.

Midfielder Precious Christopher has also been handed a maiden invitation. Defenders Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin and Ashleigh Plumptre made the list.

Other midfielders named are Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini, while forwards Rinsola Babajide and Folashade Ijamilusi were also selected.

Six-time CAF Women’s Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, was not included in the squad.

The friendlies are part of preparations for the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to hold in Morocco from March 17 to April 3.

All four semi-finalists at the tournament will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

NAN