Super Falcons Camp Swells to 23 with Ijamilusi’s Arrival, NFF Resolves Travel Setback

The Super Falcons’ camp in Casablanca received a major boost on Tuesday with the arrival of forward Folashade Ijamilusi, increasing the number of players in camp to 23 as Nigeria steps up preparations for the 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

Ijamilusi, who plays for Chinese club Liaoning Shenyang Shenbei Hefeng, touched down in Casablanca shortly before 3 p.m. on Tuesday and immediately linked up with her teammates at the Hotel Marriott.

The former Nigeria youth international returns to the continental championship after making a memorable impact at the last edition, where she scored twice, including the Super Falcons’ equaliser in the dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) also confirmed a travel setback involving midfielder Deborah Abiodun and forward Gift Monday after their scheduled flight from the United States was cancelled because of technical issues.

The duo had already arrived at the airport before learning of the cancellation, prompting the federation to secure fresh flight tickets to ensure their timely arrival in camp.

Despite the minor disruption, preparations have continued smoothly for the defending champions, who have maintained intensive training sessions at the La Noria Club in Casablanca ahead of their move to Morocco’s administrative capital, Rabat.

The Super Falcons will play their Group C fixtures against Malawi, Egypt and Zambia in Rabat.

As part of the tournament schedule, the team’s official arrival meeting with representatives of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee is slated for Saturday, July 25.

Nigeria, seeking an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title, will begin their title defence against Malawi on Tuesday next week.