The Nigerian Super Falcons camp in Lomé has been hit by a major setback ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final qualifying round, as star midfielder Jennifer Echegini has been ruled out of the tie against the Benin Republic due to injury.
Echegini, who represents Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), sustained a hamstring injury during a club fixture on Monday night. Medical reports confirm she will miss both Friday’s first-leg encounter in Lomé and the return leg at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abuja next Tuesday. Her absence comes as a major blow to the Super Falcons WAFCON Qualifiers campaign, given her influence in midfield and her knack for producing decisive moments in key matches.
The 24-year-old’s absence will be particularly felt, as she was the match-winner in Nigeria’s triumph over Morocco in the last Women’s AFCON final, underscoring her reputation as one of Africa’s most dynamic midfielders.
Despite the setback, Head Coach Justine Madugu remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances. The squad continues to grow stronger with the arrival of key internationals, boosting morale and depth ahead of the crucial two-legged qualifier.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade (PSG) joined camp last night alongside several foreign-based stars, including defenders Osinachi Ohale (Mexico), Michelle Alozie (USA), Shukurat Oladipo (Italy), and Ashleigh Plumptre (Saudi Arabia). Forwards Chinwendu Ihezuo (Mexico) and Esther Okoronkwo (Canada) also checked in, alongside midfielder Deborah Abiodun (USA).
The Super Falcons camp, which grew to 11 players on Monday following the arrival of Christy Ucheibe and Chiamaka Nnadozie, is expected to reach full capacity before the first-leg fixture. The first match between Benin and Nigeria will take place this Friday at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé.
With Echegini sidelined, Nigeria will rely on its experienced core and squad depth to maintain dominance and keep their WAFCON 2026 qualification hopes firmly on track.
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