Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu has named a 25-player squad to defend Nigeria's Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at this year's tournament in Morocco.
The squad, announced on Friday by the Nigeria Football Federation, is led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade and includes star players Chiamaka Nnadozie, Asisat Oshoala, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne, Michelle Alozie and Osinachi Ohale.
Nigeria will be chasing a record-extending 11th continental title.
One of the biggest talking points is the absence of defender Ashleigh Plumptre, who misses the tournament through injury after playing a key role in Nigeria's title-winning campaign. Midfielder Christy Ucheibe is also unavailable because of injury.
Madugu said he selected a balanced squad capable of retaining the trophy.
"We have picked a team that combines experience and youth," the coach said.
"We believe these players have what it takes to defend our title and make Nigerians proud."
Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi.
The Super Falcons will open their campaign against Malawi on 28th July before facing Zambia on 1st August and Egypt on 5th August in Rabat.
The top teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage.
The four semifinalists from this tournament will earn automatic qualification for next year's FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil.
Nigeria remain the most successful team in the history of the competition, having won 10 WAFCON titles.
After reclaiming the trophy in the last edition, the Super Falcons will head to Morocco aiming to strengthen their dominance of women's football in Africa with another championship.
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