The Super Falcons remain the standard at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). In 13 editions of the tournament, Nigeria has been crowned champions ten times.

Behind these successes were players who held the defence down, marshalled the midfield, and scored critical goals when it mattered most.

As Nigeria bids to retain the WAFCON crown won in Morocco, here are the key Super Falcons players to watch:

Esther Okoronkwo

At the last WAFCON, Esther Okoronkwo overcame early fitness struggles to become Nigeria’s most lethal playmaker.

But as the tournament progressed, the AFC Toronto player became vital to the campaign, scoring key goals and providing assists—most notably in the final against host nation Morocco.

Her contributions to the campaign will be remembered for years, especially for her role in the final win over the Atlas Lionesses. Down by two goals after half-time, Okoronkwo sparked Nigeria’s rally by scoring from the penalty spot before setting up two goals to seal a historic 3-2 victory. That game-changing performance earned her the Woman of the Match award in the final.

She missed out on the Player of the Tournament prize to teammate Rasheedat Ajibade. The Super Falcons will count on her creative spark to anchor the attack once again and lead them to an 11th crown.

Rasheedat Ajibade

Like Okoronkwo, Ajibade’s role in the Nigerian team is unmistakable. As captain and creative catalyst, her influence on the Super Falcons goes beyond the pitch.

The PSG star was named as the Player of the Tournament at the last WAFCON following her outstanding performance.

The Super Falcons’ skipper’s exceptional workrate, discipline and leadership will be critical to Coach Justin Madugu’s tactical setup.

As one of the engine rooms of the Super Falcons, her ability to score important goals will be tested as they target an 11th continental crown and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Chiamaka Nnadozie

While much is spoken about Nigeria’s firepower, the goalkeeping department is one area the Super Falcons are well-equipped to handle the pressure from opponents.

In Nnadozie, Madugu’s charges have a winner of the CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, a prize the Brighton lady has made her own, claiming it thrice on the bounce.

Her shot-stopping abilities and the skills to organise the team from the back are vital attributes that have endeared her to many. Once again, Nigeria will be banking on her to continue the good form she has displayed at both club and national levels in the past months.

Halimatu Ayinde

Nnadozie will count on the experienced Ayinde to provide a shield for the defence. In the 2024 edition of the WAFCON, her calm and composure stood out.

In 2024, Ayinde, who has four WAFCON crowns, excels at pulling the strings from the middle and acts as the heartbeat of the Super Falcons.

With every tackle, line-breaking pass, and interception, the BK Häcken midfielder embodies the spirit of the squad. Her ability to dictate tempo will surely give the much-needed freedom for the array of attacking players on Nigeria’s roster to flourish.(Channels TV)

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