Injured defender urges Nigerians to rally behind the Super Falcons as they begin their title defence in Morocco.
Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has shared her disappointment after missing out on Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), revealing that injury has forced her to sit out the continental tournament.
The Ashleigh Plumptre injury update ahead of the 2026 WAFCON came shortly after Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu unveiled his 25-player squad for the competition, which will be hosted in Morocco.
Plumptre, who played an important role in Nigeria’s successful 2025 WAFCON triumph, took to social media to explain why she will not be part of the defending champions’ campaign this year.
“The body is asking for more time and I’m listening,” Plumptre wrote.
“Sad to be missing this WAFCON yet hopeful in the prospect of getting to fight alongside these women again with the support of Nigerians everywhere when the body is ready to compete again.
“I am with you ladies, Naija no dey carry last.”
“So, in the meantime, back these women, back them on their quest for victory once more. Go easy on them, they need you.
Despite her absence, the Super Falcons squad for the 2026 WAFCON remains packed with experience and quality. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade leads the team alongside first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, veteran defender Osinachi Ohale, midfielder Jennifer Echegini and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala.
Also included in the squad are Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Toni Payne, Deborah Abiodun, Gift Monday, Esther Okoronkwo, Francisca Ordega, Omorinsola Babajide, Chinwendu Ihezuo and Uchenna Kanu, among others.
Nigeria, the reigning African champions and record 10-time winners, have been drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi. All of the Super Falcons’ group-stage fixtures will be played in Rabat.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is scheduled to run from July 26 to August 16 and will feature 16 teams for the first time in the competition’s history.
In addition to battling for continental glory, the tournament carries significant importance, with the four semi-finalists securing automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The team finishing fifth will progress to the intercontinental playoffs.
As the Super Falcons begin the defence of their WAFCON title, they will be aiming to capture an unprecedented 11th African crown after their memorable 3-2 victory over hosts Morocco in last year’s final.
Although Plumptre will not be on the pitch this time, the experienced defender has made it clear that her full support remains with her teammates as they pursue another historic triumph for Nigerian women’s football.