Oshoala, Demehin headline Falcons’ first training session News

Super Falcons have commenced full training in Lomé ahead of their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying first-leg clash against Benin Republic, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Camp update from the team’s media officer on Monday evening confirmed that the session was concluded successfully, with defender Tosin Demehin being the latest arrival to join the squad.

Nine players are now in camp, including six-time African Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala, new invitee Joy Omewa, China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi, and the home-based quintet of goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defenders Blessing Ilivieda and Miracle Usani, midfielder Taiwo Afolabi and forward Kafayat Mafisere.

Head coach Justine Madugu has expressed satisfaction with the team’s early response, confirming that the squad will continue their training sessions throughout the week as they fine-tune tactics for the crucial fixture.

Nigeria, champions of Africa, will face the Béninoise senior women’s team at the 25,000-capacity Stade de Kégué in Lomé on Friday. The match will kick off at 4pm Nigeria time.

Both teams are meeting in the final qualifying round of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, which will be hosted by Morocco.

The tournament also doubles as Africa’s qualifying event for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.

CAF has appointed Gambian referee Ngum Fatou to officiate the first leg, with Mauritanians Mariem Chedad and Hamedine Houleye as assistant referees. Gambian Isatou Touray will serve as fourth official, while Niger’s Halimatou Hamidou will act as the match commissioner. Malawi’s Martha Nyekanyeka will take charge as referee assessor.