After almost a year away from the national team, Asisat Oshoala is officially back with the Super Falcons as Nigeria gets set for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Head Coach Justine Madugu on Friday released the full 24-player list — and Oshoala, who now plays for Bay FC in the U.S., is one of the headline names alongside team captain Rasheedat Ajibade, star goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forward Francisca Ordega.

There had been a lot of talk around Oshoala’s absence in recent games, but Coach Madugu cleared the air:

“Her leadership and experience were never in doubt. We just wanted to give younger players a chance to grow,” he said.

Despite going through a rough patch at club level — with seven straight games without a goal — Oshoala is expected to bring her signature intensity and leadership back to the squad.

A Mix of Experience and Fresh Talent

This year’s Super Falcons team is a blend of veterans and rising stars. Key names include:

Ashleigh Plumptre (Saudi Arabia)

Michelle Alozie (USA)

Jennifer Echegini and Christy Ucheibe (midfield)

Rachael Unachukwu, Sikiratu Isah, and Miracle Usani (home-based talents)

The team started training in Abuja on Thursday and will continue until Saturday before heading to Lisbon, Portugal, for a final training camp.

There, they’ll face Portugal in a friendly match on June 23, then head to Morocco to battle Ghana’s Black Queens on June 29.

WAFCON Title Chase Begins

Nigeria begins its WAFCON 2024 journey on July 6 against Tunisia, then faces Botswana and Algeria in the group stage.

The Super Falcons are aiming for their 10th WAFCON title — and with Oshoala back in action, hopes are high for another historic run.