PSG’s Jennifer Echegini ruled out as Super Falcons prepare for Benin test
Nigeria’s Super Falcons will face Benin Republic in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers without star midfielder Jennifer Echegini.
The Paris Saint-Germain player has been ruled out after sustaining a hamstring injury during her club’s French league match on Monday night. She will miss both legs of the doubleheader.
No replacement has been named yet. Echegini’s absence comes as a major setback for coach Justine Madugu, who had built much of his midfield strategy around her.
The midfielder famously scored Nigeria’s winner in the 2024 WAFCON final against hosts Morocco. Despite the blow, Madugu insists his side remains confident of advancing to the next round.
The first leg of the tie will be played on Thursday, October 23, at the Stade de Kégué in Lomé, Togo. The return fixture follows on Tuesday, October 28, at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, also of PSG, will lead the team alongside in-form forward Esther Okoronkwo and experienced defender Osinachi Ohale.
Other key players already in camp include goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun, and defender Ashley Plumptre, who joined the squad on Tuesday.
Eleven players have reported to camp in Lomé, with the remainder expected before Wednesday’s final training session.
Meanwhile, Benin Republic approach the tie with quiet confidence.
Head coach Abdoulaye Ouzerou has challenged his players to show mental strength against Africa’s most successful women’s team.
“We’re not afraid of Nigeria,” Ouzerou said. “If you’re physically and technically inferior, you must compensate mentally—and mentally, we are ready.”
Despite acknowledging the gulf in experience, Ouzerou believes determination could level the contest.
The Super Falcons, record 10-time WAFCON champions, remain firm favourites. But Benin see this as a chance to measure their progress—and perhaps cause a historic upset.
