2026 WAFCON: Falcons land in Lome, Oshoala heads early arrivals 

The Super Falcons have begun assembling in Lome, Togo, ahead of their crucial 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final qualifier against the Benin Republic.

Six-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, was among the first to hit camp on Sunday, joined by new invitee Joy Omewa and Turkey-based defender Tosin Demehin.

Others already in camp include China-based forward Folashade Ijamilusi and the home-based quintet — goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi, defenders Blessing Ilivieda and Miracle Usani, midfielder Taiwo Afolabi, and forward Kafayat Mafisere.

Head Coach Justine Madugu confirmed that training sessions would kick off Monday afternoon in Lomé as preparations intensify for Friday’s showdown against the Beninese women’s team.

The match, billed for the 25,000-capacity Stade de Kegue, will start at 3 p.m. local time (4 p.m. Nigeria time). Benin will play their home tie in Togo due to the non-approval of their stadium by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The reverse fixture will take place on October 28 at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta.

CAF has appointed Gambian referee Ngum Fatou to officiate Friday’s tie, assisted by Mariem Chedad and Hamedine Houleye from Mauritania, with Isatou Touray of Gambia serving as fourth official.

Halimatou Hamidou from Niger Republic will act as match commissioner, while Martha Nyekanyeka of Malawi will serve as referee assessor.

The 2026 WAFCON in Morocco doubles as Africa’s qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.