WAFCON Qualifiers – Taiwo Afolabi handed debut, Asisat Oshoala, Christy Ucheibe dropped.

Ahead of the Super Falcons’ first leg Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifier against Benin Republic, AlliNewsNigeria can confirm that head coach Justin Madugu has made some bold selection decisions.

Former Flamingoes captain Taiwo Afolabi, now part of the senior national team setup, has earned her first Super Falcons call-up — and will go straight into the starting XI against Benin Republic.

Six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala starts from the bench. Benfica midfielder Christy Ucheibe is also among the substitutes, while Deborah Abiodun retains her spot in midfield alongside team captain Rasheedat Ajibade.

Up front, 2024 WAFCON final goalscorer Folashade Ijamilusi starts alongside in-form Pachuca striker Chinwendu Ihezuo, with Esther Okworonkwo completing what looks to be a potent front three.

In defence, it’s the familiar lineup — Osinachi Ohale partners Tosin Demehin in central defence, with Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre operating as full-backs.

Super Falcons Starting XI vs Benin Republic

Goalkeeper

Chiamaka Nnadozie

Defenders

Tosin Demehin (14)

Osinachi Ohale (3)

Ashleigh Plumptre (5)

Michelle Alozie (2)

Midfielders

Taiwo Afolabi (12)

Deborah Abiodun (13)

Rasheedat Ajibade (15) – Captain

Forwards

Esther Okworonkwo (6)

Folashade Ijamilusi (20)

Chinwendu Ihezuo (19)

Full XI: Nnadozie (GK), Plumptre, Ohale, Demehin, Alozie, Abiodun, Afolabi, Ajibade, Ihezuo, Ijamilusi, Okworonkwo

Kick-off is scheduled for 4 PM Nigerian time (3 PM in Togo).