Head coach Justine Madugu has released a 25-player squad for the Nigeria women’s national football team ahead of their upcoming friendly matches against the Cameroon women’s national football team in Yaoundé.

 

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo headline the squad set to face the Lionesses.

 

Canada-based midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene returns to the team after a few years away, while forward Gift Monday, who plays in the United States, also makes a comeback after missing last year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

 

England-based goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor has received her first-ever call-up, while defender Chidinma Okeke returns to the 10-time African champions.

 

Midfielder Precious Christopher, who plays in Tanzania, earns her first invitation to the team. Meanwhile, regulars such as Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, Ashleigh Plumptre, Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun, Jennifer Echegini, Omorinsola Babajide, and Folashade Ijamilusi retain their places in the squad.

 

The first friendly match will take place on Saturday, 28 February, while the second fixture is scheduled for Tuesday, 3 March, both in Yaoundé.

 

The 13th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations has been confirmed to hold in Morocco from 17 March to 3 April. The four semi-finalists will automatically qualify for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.