Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has returned to South African Premier Soccer League side Chippa United ahead of the 2026/27 season, with the club officially confirming his comeback, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigeria international has linked up with the Chilli Boys as they begin pre-season preparations under head coach Brandon Truter, just days after he was spotted training with the squad.

Nwabali's exit from Chippa earlier this year came as a surprise following his impressive displays for both club and country, including his role in helping the Super Eagles secure the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Announcing his return, Chippa United expressed their delight in welcoming the shot-stopper back to the Eastern Cape.

"Chippa United Football Club is delighted to welcome Stanley Nwabali back to the Chilli Boys.

"After taking time away, Stanley Nwabali returns to the Eastern Cape, and we are pleased to welcome him back to the club," the club said in a statement.

During Nwabali's absence, Dumisani Msibi established himself as the club's first-choice goalkeeper, producing a string of impressive performances that helped Chippa United avoid relegation.

Msibi ended the campaign with five clean sheets, captained the side on several occasions and reportedly entered the conversation for a Bafana Bafana call-up.

However, Nwabali's return is expected to reignite competition for the number one shirt ahead of the new season.

According to iDiski Times, Chippa United have also shelved plans to sign former Polokwane City goalkeeper Brian Bwire and defender Bongani Sam following the Nigerian's return.

After leaving Chippa earlier in the year, Nwabali was unable to secure a move elsewhere and spent several months without competitive football.

As a result, he missed Nigeria's participation in the 2026 Unity Cup as well as the international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal.

The 30-year-old previously featured for Go Round FC before moving to Enyimba in 2020. He later had spells with Lobi Stars and Katsina United before joining Chippa United in 2022.

Nigerian winger Gabriel Orok has completed a free transfer to Kuwaiti club Al Qadsiah SC after an impressive title-winning campaign with Libyan side Swehly, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The pacey attacker was one of Swehly's standout performers during the just-concluded season, helping the club secure the Libyan League championship with a series of influential displays.

Orok contributed six league goals and played a key role in the team's attacking play as Swehly emerged champions.

His performances in Libya attracted interest from abroad, with Al Qadsiah moving quickly to secure his signature ahead of the new campaign.

The move represents another important step in the Nigerian winger's career as he prepares for a new challenge in Kuwaiti football and looks to make an immediate impact with one of the country's most established clubs.

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has insisted Nigeria will adopt a game-by-game approach at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as the defending champions bid to retain their continental crown, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The three-time reigning African Women's Goalkeeper of the Year said the team's focus remains on successfully defending the WAFCON title while also securing qualification for the next FIFA Women's World Cup.

Nigeria, Africa's most successful women's national team with 10 WAFCON titles, has been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi for the competition, which will take place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16.

"We will take it one match at a time because we cannot afford to stumble at any stage as a result of overconfidence," Nnadozie told thenff.com.

"Our focus is firmly on achieving our two goals, winning the trophy again and qualifying for the FIFA Women's World Cup."

The Paris FC shot-stopper welcomed the expansion of the tournament from 12 to 16 teams, saying the increase would make the competition even more competitive.

"It is exciting to see more teams at the finals. It will certainly make the competition more competitive, but we remain calm and focused regardless of the number of teams involved," she added.

Nnadozie also rejected the idea that some groups are easier than others, stressing that the standard of women's football across Africa has improved significantly.

"I don't believe any group is tougher than another. There are no longer minnows in African women's football," she said.

"There will be surprises because the so-called smaller teams are eager to prove themselves. Every team must be respected and taken seriously."

Despite acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead, the 24-year-old remains confident the Super Falcons have what it takes to achieve their objectives.

"We know what we are going for: the trophy and a World Cup ticket. It won't be easy, but we are the Super Falcons of Nigeria," she said.

The Super Falcons have begun preparations for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with nine players arriving at the team's training camp in Casablanca, Morocco, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to the team's Media Officer, Mary Akinsola, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and veteran forward Asisat Oshoala are among the early arrivals.

The first batch of players also includes defenders Glory Ogbonna, Oluwatosin Demehin, Rofiat Imuran and Shukurat Oladipo, as well as midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Fatima Oloko.

Akinsola disclosed that more players and members of the technical crew are expected to join the squad in the coming days as preparations gather momentum ahead of the continental showpiece.

The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations will be held in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, with the Super Falcons aiming to reclaim the continental crown.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and Malawi, with full training sessions expected to commence once the entire squad has assembled.

Super Eagles midfielder Christantus Uche is attracting interest from several European clubs, with Atletico Madrid and Brentford among the teams monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 23-year-old is expected to return to Getafe following a frustrating loan spell at Crystal Palace, where he struggled for regular playing time under manager Oliver Glasner.

Despite his limited opportunities in England, Uche remains highly rated, with Getafe president Ángel Torres previously indicating that the Spanish club would be willing to sanction his departure should a suitable offer arrive.

According to Afrik-Foot, Atletico Madrid have maintained a long-standing interest in the Nigerian international and view him as an affordable option capable of strengthening their attacking midfield.

The report adds that Uche's work rate, versatility and tactical discipline fit the profile preferred by Atletico manager Diego Simeone.

Premier League side Brentford are also reportedly keen on the midfielder as they seek to add depth to their squad ahead of a campaign that includes both domestic and European commitments.

Although his spell at Crystal Palace was disappointing, Uche's ability to operate in multiple midfield roles continues to make him an attractive prospect.

Spanish outfit Real Betis have also entered the race as they look to rejuvenate an ageing midfield featuring experienced players such as Isco, Giovani Lo Celso and Pablo Fornals.

Meanwhile, Wolverhampton Wanderers are said to have revived their interest after narrowly missing out on signing Uche from Getafe last summer.

However, following Wolves' relegation to the Championship, uncertainty surrounding the club's immediate future could influence the midfielder's decision should an offer materialise.

Flying Eagles head coach Abdu Maikaba has stated that securing qualification for the 2027 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations is Nigeria's top priority at the forthcoming WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The experienced tactician explained that reaching the semi-finals, which guarantees qualification for the continental tournament, remains the team's immediate objective before pursuing the regional title.

"Our first objective is to qualify for the 2027 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana," Maikaba told BSN Sports.

"Once we secure qualification by reaching the semi-finals, our attention will shift to winning the WAFU B championship for Nigeria."

The 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship will take place in Côte d'Ivoire from July 26 to August 9, with the tournament draw scheduled for Wednesday, July 15.

All seven member associations of WAFU B will participate in the competition as they battle for places at the 2027 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be hosted by Ghana.

The Flying Eagles will be aiming to book their place at the continental championship while also challenging for the regional crown in Côte d'Ivoire.

Nigeria's Golden Eaglets wrapped up their participation at the 2026 China Four-Nation Invitational Tournament with a 1-1 draw against hosts China, earning their first point of the competition after two successive defeats, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian U-17 side went into the encounter looking to bounce back from losses to Tanzania and Australia and responded with a much-improved display in their final outing.

Idor Samuel handed the Golden Eaglets an early advantage in the 11th minute, capitalising on Nigeria's bright start to the contest.

China responded swiftly, with Zhang Junhao finding the equaliser 10 minutes later to leave the scores level at 1-1 heading into the half-time break.

Both teams created opportunities after the restart, but neither could find a winning goal as the match finished all square.

The draw ensured the Golden Eaglets avoided finishing the tournament without a point and provided a confidence boost ahead of their preparations for the upcoming WAFU B U-17 Championship.

Tanzania finished as champions of the invitational tournament after maintaining a perfect record with three victories from three matches.

The Serengeti Boys sealed top spot with an emphatic 5-2 victory over Australia in their final game, with Hamisi Chenga and Sadam Hussein both scoring braces, while Razaki Mbengelendi also got on the scoresheet.

The East Africans had earlier defeated China 2-0 after opening their campaign with a 3-2 victory over Nigeria, highlighting their impressive form ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Italian women's football club Inter Milan have completed the signing of Super Falcons forward Toni Payne on a three-year contract following the expiration of her stay at Everton, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Serie A Femminile side confirmed that the Nigeria international has signed a deal that will keep her at the club until June 30, 2028, as they strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Born on April 22, 1995, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Nigerian parents, Payne began her football journey alongside her siblings, Nicole and Stephen Payne, who have also represented Nigeria at international level.

After progressing through the ranks in the United States, the versatile attacker moved to Europe, where she played for Ajax before joining Spanish side Sevilla in 2018.

Payne enjoyed a highly successful six-year spell with Sevilla, making 168 appearances and scoring 30 goals while establishing herself as one of Liga F's most reliable attacking players.

She joined Women's Super League club Everton in 2024 before sealing her latest move to Inter Milan.

At international level, Payne initially featured for the United States at youth level before switching allegiance to Nigeria.

Since making her Super Falcons debut in 2021, the 30-year-old has become a key member of the national team, earning recognition for her versatility, creativity and experience.

Inter Milan will be hoping Payne's wealth of experience and proven quality will strengthen their attacking options as they target a successful 2026/27 season.

El Kanemi Warriors have been crowned champions of the 2026 President Federation Cup after defeating Ikorodu City 1-0 in Saturday's final at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Maiduguri-based side produced a disciplined and determined performance to secure their fourth Federation Cup title, with the decisive goal proving enough to separate both teams in a closely contested encounter.

The victory also earns El Kanemi Warriors a place in next season's CAF Confederation Cup, where they will represent Nigeria on the continental stage.

Ikorodu City, appearing in their maiden President Federation Cup final, fought bravely in pursuit of a historic first title but were unable to break down El Kanemi Warriors' resolute defence.

The triumph adds another chapter to El Kanemi Warriors' rich history in the competition, as they lift the prestigious trophy for the fourth time and secure a return to continental football ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers have turned down an approach from Italian side Fiorentina for Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Nigerian forward has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the transfer market following his impressive performances, attracting interest from several clubs across Europe.

Turkish Super Lig outfit Trabzonspor are also among the clubs keen on signing the 24-year-old and have submitted a proposal in an attempt to secure his services.

However, reports suggest Arokodare is not interested in a move to the Turkish side, leaving Trabzonspor facing an uphill task in their pursuit of the striker.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are continuing to evaluate interest in the Nigeria international after rejecting Fiorentina's opening offer, with the Premier League club showing no willingness to part with the forward on the terms proposed.

With Fiorentina expected to consider a renewed approach and other clubs monitoring the situation, the battle for Arokodare's signature is likely to intensify as the summer transfer window progresses.

Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have booked their place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Benin Republic 5-3 in an entertaining second-leg qualifier at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The victory handed the Flamingos an 8-5 aggregate success, ensuring they progressed from the final round of the CAF qualifiers to secure one of Africa’s qualification spots for the tournament in Morocco.

Holding a slender 3-2 advantage from the first leg, the Nigerians produced another dominant attacking display to complete the job in style.

Mary Akpan Dunstan gave the Flamingos an early lead in the sixth minute before Esther Enne Stephen doubled the advantage eight minutes later.

Queen Joseph was the star of the show, netting a superb hat-trick with goals in the 20th, 54th and 75th minutes to put the contest beyond the Beninese side.

Benin Republic refused to surrender without a fight, with Romaine Gandonou scoring twice in the ninth and 64th minutes, while Hermionne Lokossou also found the back of the net in the 56th minute.

Despite the hosts' spirited response, the Flamingos remained in control to secure another impressive victory and seal qualification for the global showpiece.

The result confirms Nigeria's participation at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, which will be staged in Morocco from October 17 to November 7, 2026.

The Flamingos will represent Africa alongside hosts Morocco, with the continent having five representatives at the expanded 24-team tournament.

Attention will now shift to preparations for the World Cup as Nigeria looks to build on its impressive qualifying campaign and challenge for honours on the global stage.

Heartland Queens and Ikorodu City will be aiming to cap remarkable debut campaigns with silverware when they face seasoned opponents in the finals of the 2026 President Federation Cup at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba on Saturday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The women's final will kick off at 12:00 p.m., with Heartland Queens taking on two-time champions Nasarawa Amazons, while the men's final between three-time winners El-Kanemi Warriors and first-time finalists Ikorodu City is scheduled for 4:00 p.m.

Heartland Queens have emerged as one of the surprise packages of this year's competition after eliminating several established sides on their route to the final. The Owerri-based club booked their place in the title decider by defeating FC Robo Queens in the semi-finals after earlier overcoming Dragon Fury Ladies, Ahudiyannem Queens and Ibom Angels.

Nasarawa Amazons, meanwhile, secured their place in the final with a hard-fought semi-final victory over Sunshine Queens in Enugu. Their journey also included victories over Osklean FC and penalty shootout successes against Naija Ratels and Edo Queens.

In the men's final, holders El-Kanemi Warriors will battle newcomers Ikorodu City for the coveted trophy and a place in next season's CAF Confederation Cup.

The Maiduguri club are chasing a fourth Federation Cup title, having previously won the competition in 1991, 1992 and 2024, when they defeated Abia Warriors in the final at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

Ikorodu City, however, will be hoping to complete a dream run by upsetting the experienced El-Kanemi Warriors and securing their first major domestic trophy, as both sides prepare for what promises to be an exciting finale in Asaba.

Norwegian club Lillestrøm have completed the permanent signing of promising Nigerian forward Seun Akanji, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Akanji first arrived at the club on trial 18 months ago, with Lillestrøm securing an agreement allowing them to complete the transfer once the youngster turned 18.

The talented attacker expressed his delight after officially joining the Norwegian outfit, describing the move as a dream fulfilled.

"I'm incredibly happy to be here. Signing for a fantastic club like this means a lot to me. This is a big dream come true, and I'm ready to give everything I have for the club," he told the club's official website.

"It was exciting to be here for a trial game last time. Now I am incredibly happy, and not least proud, to sign a contract with LSK. I have had a great start and have been very well received by both my teammates and the coaches."

Akanji caught the attention of the club during his trial as a 16-year-old, producing performances that convinced Lillestrøm to invest in his long-term future.

Sporting director Espen Olsen believes the Nigerian possesses the qualities to develop into an important player for the club.

"Seun impressed us a lot when he was on trial as a 16-year-old in January 2025. Now he is finally formally ready for LSK, and we are really looking forward to further developing him here at the club. He is an exciting and explosive player in whom we see great potential," Olsen said.

The move represents another significant step in Akanji's career as he begins his professional journey in European football with one of Norway's most established clubs.

Danish Superliga side FC Midtjylland have completed the signing of promising Nigerian defender Ikenna Prosper Ude-Chukwu from FC Ebedei, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 19-year-old centre-back will begin his journey with the club's U-19 team as he continues his development, with the long-term objective of breaking into FC Midtjylland's senior squad.

Speaking after completing the move, Ude-Chukwu described signing his first professional contract as a dream come true and expressed gratitude for the opportunity.

"It's really big for me to sign a contract with FC Midtjylland – and for my family too. It's my first contract, so I'm of course incredibly happy. It's a dream for me, so I'm grateful to have the opportunity," he told the club's official website.

"FC Midtjylland is a big club in Denmark, but I have been very well received by everyone here at the club. There is a big difference from Nigeria to Denmark. So far, the food, the pitches and the weather have particularly impressed me."

The young defender also outlined his ambitions as he begins life in Denmark.

"My short-term goal is to get better every day and focus on my development. In the long term, I hope to play for the first team one day. One of my biggest dreams is to play in the Champions League with FC Midtjylland," he added.

Head of FCM Nigeria, Jonas Dal, believes Ude-Chukwu possesses the qualities needed to thrive at the club and praised his defensive attributes.

"Ikenna is a strong player who is good in one-on-one situations. It can sometimes be problematic, as it can cost a free kick, but Ikenna is good at controlling it and at the same time standing strong defensively," Dal said.

"He is also incredibly fast and reads the game, so it is difficult for offensive players to get past him.

"He fits incredibly well into FC Midtjylland because we want to press high and keep a high back line. It is important that the defensive players are aware of how the game can develop, and here he is good at reading the opponents and acting quickly."

The move marks another milestone in Ude-Chukwu's career as he looks to establish himself in European football and eventually fulfil his ambition of representing FC Midtjylland's first team.

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Enugu Rangers have dismissed allegations by Super Eagles winger Moses Simon that he was denied a contract because he was not of Igbo origin, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Paris FC forward made the claim during an interview with UrbanDwellSport, where he recounted an unsuccessful trial with the Flying Antelopes earlier in his career.

Simon revealed that he trained with Rangers for three months and believed his performances had earned him a professional contract after captaining the club's screening team.

"I went to Rangers and trained with them for three months. I wasn't signed, but I was training with them. In fact, I was the captain of the 'screening' team," Simon said.

"I've never told anyone this story; this is the first time, but it was a disgrace, I was dropped because I was not Igbo.

"I was there for three months, and a guy came I have forgotten his name, he's an Ibo guy, he just trained one week, and they signed him, professional contract, they said because I was from the north or something."

Responding to the allegations, Rangers released an official statement on the club's X account, firmly rejecting the accusation and insisting the club has never operated any form of ethnic discrimination.

"While we respect every player's right to recount his personal journey, it is important to clearly state that Rangers International FC has never maintained, and does not maintain, any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion or place of origin," the statement read.

"For over five decades, Rangers has stood as one of Nigeria's foremost national football institutions. Although proudly rooted in Enugu and the South-East, the club has always belonged to Nigeria.

"Throughout its rich history, Rangers has been home to players, coaches and officials from virtually every part of the country and the continent, all united by one objective: excellence on the football pitch."

The seven-time Nigerian champions stressed that recruitment decisions have always been based on footballing merit rather than ethnic background.

"The club's recruitment philosophy has always been based on footballing ability, character, discipline and commitment, not ethnic identity.

"Thousands of players have passed through Rangers over the years. Some earned contracts, others did not. Such decisions are part of football and are influenced by numerous sporting, technical and administrative considerations. It would therefore be inaccurate to characterise Rangers as an institution that discriminates against players because of their ethnicity."

The club further stated that its current administration remains committed to professionalism, meritocracy, diversity and inclusion, with players recruited from across Nigeria and beyond for its men's, women's and youth teams.

"Rangers remains committed to providing equal opportunities to every talented player regardless of ethnic background, religion or geographical origin. The values that define this great club are excellence, integrity, discipline, hard work and unity.

"As one of Nigeria's most historic football institutions, Rangers will continue to serve as a symbol of national integration, where talent speaks louder than tribe, and performance remains the ultimate criterion for opportunity."

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda to officiate Saturday's decisive 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup final qualifying round second-leg clash between Benin Republic and Nigeria's Flamingos, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nabadda will be assisted by Mali's Fanta Idrissa Kone as first assistant referee, while Burundi's Fides Bangurambona has been named second assistant referee.

Fellow Ugandan official Josephine Nantongo will serve as the reserve referee for the encounter.

CAF has also designated Aissata Ameyo of Togo as the match commissioner, with Senegal's Fatou Gaye appointed as the referee assessor.

Nigeria heads into the return leg with a narrow 3-2 advantage following last weekend's first-leg victory at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The Flamingos, under the guidance of head coach Akeem Busari, arrived in Lomé on Friday and have concluded preparations for the crucial fixture.

A place at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco is at stake, with the winner on aggregate securing qualification for the global tournament later this year.

Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has claimed he was denied the opportunity to sign for Enugu Rangers at the start of his career because he was not of Igbo origin, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Paris FC star made the revelation during an interview with UrbanDwellSport, recalling a disappointing experience after spending three months on trial with the seven-time Nigeria Premier Football League champions.

According to Simon, he impressed the coaching staff throughout the screening exercise and was even appointed captain of the trial team, leaving him convinced that he had earned a professional contract.

However, the winger alleged that he was overlooked despite his performances, while another player was signed after only a brief trial.

"I went to Rangers and trained with them for three months. I wasn't signed, but I was training with them. In fact, I was the captain of the 'screening' team.

"I've never told anyone this story; this is the first time, but it was a disgrace. I was dropped because I was not Igbo.

"I was there for three months, and a guy came I have forgotten his name; he's an Ibo guy, he just trained one week, and they signed him, professional contract, they said because I was from the north or something."

Despite the setback, Simon went on to build a successful career in Europe.

In January 2014, he signed a three-year contract with Slovak club Tren?ín and made his league debut in a 1-1 draw against MFK Košice.

He also featured in the UEFA Europa League during the 2014/15 campaign, making his continental debut in Tren?ín's second qualifying round tie against Serbian side Vojvodina Novi Sad.

The Nigerian international later enjoyed successful spells with Belgian club Gent and Spanish side Levante before joining French outfit Nantes on an initial loan move in August 2019. Nantes eventually exercised the option to make the transfer permanent following his impressive performances.

During his time at Gent, Simon won the Belgian Pro League title and the Belgian Super Cup, while he also lifted the Coupe de France with Nantes.

On the international stage, the winger has represented Nigeria at four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, featuring at the 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 editions.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has arrived in Turkey ahead of the start of the new Turkish Süper Lig season, with the Nigerian forward set to link up with Galatasaray for pre-season preparations, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The prolific striker touched down in Istanbul aboard a private jet after missing the opening day of Galatasaray's pre-season training at the Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Facilities on Tuesday.

Osimhen is now expected to complete his medical before joining his teammates as preparations intensify for the new campaign.

Providing an update on the Nigerian's arrival, Turkish football pundit Süleyman Rodop said:

"Victor Osimhen will be in Istanbul and will take part in training tomorrow."

The former Napoli forward enjoyed an outstanding campaign with the Istanbul giants, playing a pivotal role in their successful Turkish Super Lig title-winning season.

Osimhen ended the campaign with an impressive return of 22 goals and eight assists across all competitions, further establishing himself as one of Europe's most prolific strikers.

The 26-year-old will now be aiming to build on that impressive form as Galatasaray begin preparations for another domestic title challenge and their return to European competition.

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has unveiled a 25-player squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as Nigeria prepares to defend its continental crown in Morocco, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade leads a star-studded squad that features reigning African Women's Goalkeeper of the Year Chiamaka Nnadozie, experienced defender Osinachi Ohale, midfield duo Jennifer Echegini and Toni Payne, as well as veteran forward Asisat Oshoala.

Madugu has also included home-based goalkeeper Fatima Oloko alongside defenders Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin and Christy Ucheibe. Midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Deborah Abiodun also made the squad, while Esther Okoronkwo, Francisca Ordega, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Gift Monday and Omorinsola Babajide complete the attacking options.

The Super Falcons will be aiming to win a record-extending 11th WAFCON title when the tournament takes place in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, 2026.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi, with all three group-stage fixtures scheduled to be played in Rabat.

The 2026 edition will also mark the first time the Women's Africa Cup of Nations will feature 16 participating teams.

Beyond the continental title, qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil will also be at stake, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification, while the fifth-placed team will advance to the intercontinental play-offs.

The Super Falcons head into the tournament as defending champions after coming from behind to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the 2025 final, securing a record 10th African title.

Super Falcons squad for the 2026 WAFCON

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Brighton & Hove Albion, England), Comfort Erhabor (Portsmouth Ladies, England), Fatima Oloko (Abia Angels).

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Michelle Alozie (Olivia Wynn, USA), Shukurat Oladipo (AS Roma, Italy), Rofiat Imuran (London City Lionesses, England), Glory Ogbonna (FC Kiryat Gat, Israel), Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray, Turkey), Sikiratu Isah (Bnot Netanya, Israel), Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal).

Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Paris Saint-Germain, France), Halimatu Ayinde (BK Häcken, Sweden), Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit, USA), Toni Payne (Everton Women, England), Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint-Germain, France).

Forwards: Asisat Oshoala (Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia), Gift Monday (Washington Spirit, USA), Esther Okoronkwo (AFC Toronto, Canada), Joy Omewa (BK Häcken, Sweden), Francisca Ordega (Al Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Folashade Ijamilusi (Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, China), Omorinsola Babajide (AS Roma, Italy), Chinwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Tuzas, Mexico), Uchenna Kanu (Cruz Azul Femenil, Mexico).

Serie A newcomers Venezia have reached an agreement with Sevilla for the permanent signing of Super Eagles striker Akor Adams, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Italian club will pay €16 million to secure the services of the Nigerian forward after returning with an improved offer that satisfied Sevilla's valuation.

The Spanish club had rejected Venezia's earlier bids before the Serie A side successfully concluded negotiations with an enhanced proposal.

Adams has already agreed personal terms with Venezia, leaving the transfer subject to the completion of the remaining formalities.

The deal will make the 26-year-old the most expensive signing in Venezia's history.

The Nigerian striker enjoyed an impressive campaign with Sevilla, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists in 32 league appearances.

Adams joined the Spanish outfit from French side Montpellier in January 2025 for a reported fee of €5 million. His first few months at the Estadio Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán were disrupted by injury, limiting him to just four league appearances without a goal before he established himself in the team.

His club performances earned him his first senior call-up to the Super Eagles during Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin.

The striker marked his international debut in style by coming off the bench to score against Lesotho and was later part of the Super Eagles squad that won the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Venezia secured promotion back to Serie A after winning the Serie B title last season and are strengthening their squad with quality additions as they prepare for life in the Italian top flight. Adams is expected to play a key role in the club's bid to retain its Serie A status.