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With less than 24 hours to go before Nigeria kicks off their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign, the jersey numbers for the Super Falcons 24-woman squad have been officially released.
The 13th edition of the continental showpiece is set to begin today Saturday, July 5, in Rabat, Morocco, where the hosts will face Zambia’s Copper Queens in the tournament’s curtain-raiser.
Nine-time champions Nigeria are drawn in Group B and will begin their title quest on Sunday, July 7, against Tunisia. The other group fixture will see Algeria take on Botswana in what promises to be an action-packed start to the competition.
Notable Squad Numbers
According to updates from the Super Falcons’ camp in Rabat, several familiar names will retain their traditional numbers, while a few newcomers have been assigned fresh jerseys for their maiden WAFCON appearances.
Asisat Oshoala, the team’s iconic forward and Africa’s most decorated female footballers having won African Women’s Footballer of the Year a record six times, will continue to wear her trademark No. 8 jersey. The former Barcelona star is expected to play a key leadership and attacking role as the Falcons aim for a record-extending 10th title.
Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade has been confirmed to wear the No. 15 shirt. Known for her flair and versatility, Ajibade enters the tournament in fine form following a solid season with Atlético Madrid.
Francisca Ordega, returning to the squad after missing recent international windows, will wear No. 17. The veteran winger brings experience and dynamism to Nigeria’s flanks.
Promising newcomer Chinyere Okafor has been handed No. 24 as she prepares for her senior tournament debut. The young midfielder impressed during the preparatory camp and is one of several rising stars in coach Justine Madugu squad.
The full list of squad numbers was published by the Super Falcons across its official platforms ahead of tournament’s kick-off.
Nigeria Chasing 10th WAFCON Title
The Super Falcons remain the most successful team in WAFCON history, having lifted the trophy nine times—including three consecutive titles between 2014 and 2018. However, their grip on the crown slipped in 2022, when they were knocked out in the semi-finals by host nation Morocco in a dramatic penalty shootout.
With renewed hunger and a blend of youth and experience, Nigeria will be aiming to reclaim the title and reassert their dominance in African women’s football.
Their group-stage fixtures will see them face Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, with the top two teams from each group and the two best third-placed teams advancing to the quarter-finals.