Nigeria XI vs Malawi: Madugu names strong Super Falcons starting line-up

Nigeria head coach Justine Madugu has named a formidable starting XI for Nigeria’s international match against Malawi, with experienced goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie returning between the sticks and Esther Okoronkwo leading the attack.

Madugu has retained a blend of experience and youthful energy as the African champions begin their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title defence at Morocco 2026, with the fixture providing another opportunity to prove their credentials and talents within the squad.

In goal, first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will marshal the defence, which features Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie and Shukurat Oladipo. The quartet will be tasked with providing defensive solidity while supporting Nigeria’s attacking play from the back.

The midfield sees Halimatu Ayinde returning to anchor proceedings alongside Jennifer Echegini, whose creativity and energy will be crucial in linking defence with attack.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will spearhead the attacking unit from the wings, partnering Chinwendu Ihezuo and in-form Esther Okoronkwo, while Folashade Ijamilusi completes the frontline in a dynamic attacking setup designed to trouble the Malawian defence.

Okoronkwo will once again be one of the players to watch after her outstanding performances in recent outings, while Ihezuo’s movement and finishing ability offer Nigeria another potent attacking threat.

The encounter presents Madugu with another valuable opportunity to assess his squad depth and tactical options as the Super Falcons relish qualification to the 2027 Women’s World Cup following their last continental success.

All eyes will be on the reigning African champions as they look to deliver another convincing performance and begin their battle under Madugu’s leadership.

Nigeria Starting XI vs Malawi

Goalkeeper:

• Chiamaka Nnadozie

Defenders:

• Osinachi Ohale
• Tosin Demehin
• Michelle Alozie
• Shukurat Oladipo

Midfielders:

• Halimatu Ayinde
• Jennifer Echegini

Forwards:

• Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain)
• Chinwendu Ihezuo
• Folashade Ijamilusi
• Esther Okoronkwo

Samuel Ahmadu

Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.

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