First Falcons call-up thrills Erhabor News

England-based goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor has described her maiden Super Falcons invitation as a dream come true, reacting with delight after being named in the squad for Nigeria’s upcoming pre-WAFCON friendlies against Cameroon, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 20-year-old Portsmouth FC Women shot-stopper, who is of Nigerian descent, took to X to express her gratitude, writing, “An honour to have received my first senior call up, thank you Jesus.”

Erhabor is one of two players receiving their first senior call-ups in the 25-player squad announced by head coach Justine Madugu, alongside Tanzania-based midfielder Precious Christopher.

The squad also features the return of Washington Spirit striker Gift Monday and Canada-based Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, while Saudi-based forward Asisat Oshoala was omitted. Mexico-based defender Chidinma Okeke, who recently recovered from a long-term injury, was also included.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo retained their places, along with defenders Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin and Ashley Plumptre; midfielders Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini; and forwards Rinsola Babajide and Folashade Ijamilusi.

Gift’s last involvement with the Super Falcons came in October 2024 during friendlies against Algeria. Okobi-Okeoghene, 32, returns after giving birth to her first child and resuming club football with Ottawa Rapid FC in Canada.

The first friendly against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon will hold on Saturday, February 28, with the return leg on Tuesday, March 3.

Nigeria secured qualification for the 13th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from March 17 to April 3 in Morocco, following a 2-0 win in Cotonou and a 1-1 draw in Abeokuta against Benin Republic. It marks the Super Falcons’ 16th consecutive AFCON appearance — a record in African women’s football. All four semi-finalists at the tournament will qualify automatically for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.