Flight Delays Disrupt Super Falcons Camp as Deborah Abiodun and Gift Monday Race to Join WAFCON Squad
The duo, who were travelling from the United States, were unable to board their scheduled flight after it was cancelled because of technical issues. The unexpected disruption delayed their arrival at the Super Falcons' camp, forcing the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to make alternative travel arrangements by purchasing new tickets to ensure both players could continue their journey to Morocco.
Despite the travel setback, the Super Falcons camp received a major boost on Tuesday with the arrival of forward Folashade Ijamilusi, increasing the number of players in camp to 23. The striker arrived in Casablanca shortly before the afternoon after travelling from China, where she currently plays for Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng.
Ijamilusi remains one of Nigeria's exciting attacking talents and played an important role during the previous Women's Africa Cup of Nations. She scored twice in the last edition of the tournament, including Nigeria's crucial equaliser during the dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final, helping the Super Falcons secure another continental title.
The arrivals of Deborah Abiodun and Gift Monday will complete head coach Justine Madugu's 25-player squad as preparations intensify ahead of the competition. Training sessions have continued at the La Noria Club in Casablanca, where the team is focusing on tactical drills, fitness, and team chemistry before moving to Morocco's capital city, Rabat.
Nigeria will officially meet with officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee on Saturday, July 25, as part of the tournament's pre-competition activities.
The Super Falcons enter the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations carrying the weight of expectation as defending champions and the most successful team in the tournament's history. With an impressive record of 10 continental titles, Nigeria will once again aim to prove why they remain the dominant force in African women's football.
Their title defence begins against Malawi on Tuesday, July 28, before facing fellow Group C opponents Zambia on August 1. Nigeria will conclude the group stage against Egypt four days later, with qualification for the knockout rounds firmly in their sights.
This year's WAFCON carries even greater importance, as it also serves as Africa's qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The four teams that reach the semi-finals will automatically qualify for the global tournament, while one additional African nation will have another opportunity through the intercontinental play-offs.
Although the delayed arrival of two key players briefly interrupted Nigeria's preparations, the issue is expected to have little long-term impact. With the full squad expected to assemble soon, the Super Falcons remain focused on defending their African crown and securing another appearance on football's biggest international stage.
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