Washington Spirit midfielder Deborah Abiodun and forward Gift Monday have been called up by Nigeria Women for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Monday first appeared for the Super Falcons in 2021 and has since played in over ten matches for the side. The forward was part of Nigeria’s 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup squad as well. Since joining the Spirit early last season, Monday has appeared in 44 total matches for Washington, tallying 12 goals and three assists.
Abiodun debuted for Nigeria’s senior team in September 2022 and has gone on to feature at both the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games. Since signing with the Spirit in August 2025, the midfielder has played in 20 matches, recording one goal and one assist.
The Super Falcons will compete in Group C as they aim for their 11th continental title, with the squad including two WSL-based players: Brighton’s Chiamaka Nnadozie and Rofiat Imuran of London City Lionesses.
The Nigeria squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations:
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Fatima Oloko.
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Rofiat Imuran, Shukurat Oladipo, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isah, Christy Ucheibe.
Midfielders: Deborah Abiodun, Sikiratu Isah, Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Rasheedat Ajibade, Jennifer Echegini, Antoinette Payne.
Forwards: Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, Joy Omewa, Asisat Oshoala, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Omorinsola Babajide, Francisca Ordega, Gift Monday, Uchenna Kanu.
Nigeria’s Group C Schedule:
vs Malawi | Tuesday, July 28 (Al Medina Stadium, Rabat)
vs Zambia | Saturday, August 1 (Al Medina Stadium, Rabat)
vs Egypt | Wednesday, August 5 (Rabat Olympic Stadium, Rabat)
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