AFCON 2025
Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has explained the reason behind her omission from Nigeria’s 25-player squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), revealing that she is still recovering from injury.
The Al-Ittihad Ladies FC centre-back took to Instagram after the squad announcement, saying her body needs more time to fully recover following foot surgery.
“The body is asking for more time and I’m listening. Sad to be missing this WAFCON yet hopeful in the prospect of getting to fight alongside these women again with the support of Nigerians everywhere when the body is ready to compete again.”
Plumptre has been working her way back to fitness in recent months and had shown encouraging progress, including scoring her first international goal for Nigeria against Benin Republic during the WAFCON qualifiers. However, the defender admitted she is not yet physically ready for the continental tournament.
Despite the disappointment of missing out, the 27-year-old urged Nigerians to throw their full support behind the Super Falcons as they prepare to defend their African title in Morocco.
“So, in the meantime, back these women, back them on their quest for victory once more. Go easy on them, they need you. I am with you ladies. Naija no dey carry last.”
Plumptre has been a key figure for the Super Falcons since making her debut in 2022, playing an important role in Nigeria’s impressive run to the Round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Head coach Justine Madugu named a 25-player squad without the defender, with the team set to compete in Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi.
The nine-time African champions will be aiming to win a record-extending 11th WAFCON title when the tournament gets underway in Morocco later this month.
