Saudi Arabia-based defender Ashleigh Plumptre is set to make her much-anticipated return to the Super Falcons squad for the first time since overcoming a significant six-month injury setback.
Head coach Justin Madugu has officially invited her to participate in an international friendly match against France, scheduled for Saturday, November 30. This encounter is particularly important as it marks a critical stage in her rehabilitation journey and preparation for future competitions.
On Sunday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced the selection of a total of 20 players for the upcoming match. This roster includes a mix of talent with five home-based players and 15 who play abroad.
Plumptre, who plays for Ittihad Ladies, was unable to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games in France due to her injury but made her comeback last month with her club. She will be joined by fellow returnee Rinsola Babajide, another key player who was recently absent from the squad and did not feature in the team for the Paris Olympics or the prior friendly matches against Algeria.
In addition to these returning players, Madugu has extended a fresh call-up to Blessing Nkor, a striker from Pyramids of Egypt, further bolstering the squad with emerging talent.
Key players like Chiamaka Nnadozie, who is a nominee for the CAF Awards and recognized as one of the standout goalkeepers in the continent, will bring significant experience to the squad.
Other notable inclusions are defenders Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie, as well as midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini. Forward Gift Monday also makes her way back into the team as they prepare for this crucial match.
The squad also features US-based Michelle Alozie, Turkey’s Oluwatosin Demehin, midfielder Adoo Yina, and forwards Mercy Omokwo and Ifeoma Onumonu, all of whom contribute to a well-rounded team poised for a challenging match.
From the youth ranks, Everton Ladies midfielder Toni Payne will add creative flair, while Rofiat Imuran and Shukurat Oladipo, who made notable impacts during the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia in September, are also part of the travelling party.
Unfortunately, the Super Falcons will be without their captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, who is sidelined due to injury.
The French side, known as Les Bleues, are utilizing this match as part of their preparation for the upcoming League of Nations in the spring and the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro Championship in Switzerland during the summer.
Conversely, the Super Falcons are treating this friendly as a vital opportunity to integrate new talents into the squad and to evaluate their performance ahead of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which takes place in Morocco next summer.
All invited Super Falcons players are expected to fly directly to France for the match, where they will be joined by the coaching staff and backroom personnel, ensuring a comprehensive preparation leading up to the kickoff at 9:10 PM (Nigerian time) at the Stade Raymond Kopa in the city of Angers.
