WAFCON 2026: Ordega’s Inclusion in Super Falcons Squad Sparks Mixed Reactions Among Fans.

The inclusion of veteran forward Francisca Ordega in Nigeria’s final squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has generated widespread debate among football fans following the release of the 24-player list by Super Falcons Head Coach Justine Madugu on Friday.

While some supporters acknowledge Ordega’s wealth of experience and impressive record with the national team, many others have questioned the decision to include the Al-Ittihad of Saudi Arabia forward, arguing that younger and more in-form players deserved the opportunity.

Ordega, who began her professional career under Coach Justine Madugu at Makwada Queens (now Adamawa Queens), has maintained a long-standing relationship with the coach dating back to her early playing days.

One of Nigeria’s most decorated female footballers, Ordega has represented the country at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, and four editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup (2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023). She has also won five Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles with the Super Falcons (2010, 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2024).

Despite her remarkable achievements, many fans believe the 32-year-old has not made a significant impact for the Super Falcons in recent years.
Reacting on social media, football enthusiast Àlàbí Tolúlọpẹ́ Michael ATM wrote:

“If not for favouritism, Francisca Ordega has absolutely no business being in the Super Falcons squad anymore. She is simply occupying a spot that could be given to a younger player with more to offer. She contributed virtually nothing at the last WAFCON, so it’s surprising that the coach has included her again.”

Another fan, Dan Nathaniel, suggested that Ordega’s long-standing relationship with Madugu may have influenced her selection.

“He brought her to the national team from Makwada Queens, now Adamawa Queens. He has been part of the technical crew for a long time.”
Precious Uchechukwu also questioned the decision, saying:

“This should be the last tournament for Ohale, Ordega and Oshoala.”

Similarly, Deogratias Farms expressed surprise at her inclusion, commenting:

“I was surprised she played at the last WAFCON, only to see her name again. Coach, why waste the slot?”

However, others have defended Ordega’s selection, pointing to her vast international experience, leadership qualities and ability to mentor younger players as valuable assets for a tournament as demanding as WAFCON.

The debate highlights the difficult balance national team coaches often face between relying on experienced players and introducing fresh talent.

Nigeria will be aiming to reclaim continental glory when the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations takes place in Morocco from July 25 to August 16, 2026, with expectations once again high for the ten-time African champions.

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Olayinka Olawole

Olayinka Olawole is the Publisher of The Nations Digest Newspaper with years of experience in journalism, writing, and digital media. Over the course of his career, he has worked with some of Nigeria’s leading media organisations, including Vanguard and The Nation Newspaper.

He also served as Deputy Editor at Sahara Reporters Sports and worked as Content Manager for the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), contributing significantly to sports journalism and digital content development in Nigeria.

Known for his strong storytelling ability and editorial expertise, Olayinka Olawole has covered a wide range of subjects, while also building a reputation in digital storytelling, audience engagement, and content optimisation for online and media platforms.

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