Nigeria’s Super Falcons have touched down in Lisbon as preparations intensify for their 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign. The nine-time champions will face Portugal on Monday, 23rd June, in a high-profile international friendly at the Estádio José Gomes, with kickoff scheduled for 7pm Nigerian time.
The team departed Abuja on Sunday, flying via Casablanca after a busy week of visa appointments at the Moroccan and Portuguese embassies. The trip marks the start of their “Mission X” — a determined push for a historic 10th WAFCON title.
Head coach Justine Madugu has led intensive sessions over the past few days, first at the MKO Abiola Stadium and later at Turf Arena. His initial squad includes domestic and foreign-based talents, with more arrivals expected in Lisbon in the coming days.
Present in camp already are goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie and Tochukwu Oluehi, experienced defender Osinachi Ohale, and seasoned forwards like Francisca Ordega. Also in early are midfielder Christy Ucheibe and newcomer Rachael Unachukwu.
A fresh batch of overseas-based stars is expected to join shortly, including Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, and midfield dynamo Jennifer Echegini. Strikers like Esther Okoronkwo, Rinsola Babajide, and Chinwendu Ihezuo are also Lisbon-bound.
The Portugal clash is the first of two warm-up fixtures. The Falcons will later face Ghana’s Black Queens on 29th June in Morocco, days before WAFCON begins. Nigeria will play all Group B matches — against Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana — at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The full 26-player squad for WAFCON reflects Nigeria’s global reach and depth, with talents from Europe, North America, Asia, and the local league. Captain Ajibade, Oshoala, Payne, and Echegini are expected to be key leaders in what could be a record-breaking campaign.
With the ambition clear and preparations underway, the Super Falcons’ road to a tenth continental crown begins now — and all eyes are on Lisbon.