Super Falcons Interim Head Coach, Justin Madugu has cleared the air on the omission of striker Asisat Oshoala from the latest squad list, dismissing speculation that it signals the end of her journey with the national team.
In a chat with Brila.net, Madugu affirmed that Oshoala remains a vital part of the Super Falcons setup, and her absence is merely part of a strategic effort to assess new talents and broaden the team’s depth.
“Oshoala is a very key and integral part of the team. Her services, her contributions, her presence, her leadership and every other thing cannot be dispensed with.”
He explained that the decision was not based on form or relevance, but rather on the need to give emerging players a platform to prove themselves on the international stage.
“But these are players that we really know much about. We know their strengths, we know what they can bring to the team.”
“We need to also give others a chance to really see what they can also do.”
Coach Madugu restated Oshoala’s enduring importance to the Super Falcons.
“It’s not as if she’s no longer relevant or looking at any posts. Oshoala is very key, very relevant to the national team.”
Oshoala, a six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, remains a central figure as the Super Falcons build towards upcoming international competitions, including the 2025 WAFCON and 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Falcons camp opens today ahead of the double legged friendly against Cameroon this weekend at Remo, Ogun State.
Players are expected to resume from their respective international clubs.
