Erhabor hails maiden Super Falcons call-up as ‘dream come true’ ahead of Cameroon friendlies

England-based goalkeeper Portsmouth FC Women star Comfort Erhabor has expressed immense joy after earning her first senior invitation to the Super Falcons squad ahead of Nigeria’s international friendlies against Cameroon, Sport360NG reports.

The 20-year-old shot-stopper, who is eligible to represent Nigeria through her heritage, described the call-up as a special milestone in her career. Reacting on social media platform X, Erhabor wrote: “An honour to have received my first senior call up, thank you Jesus.”

Erhabor is one of two new faces included in the 25-player list unveiled by Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu. The other debutant is Tanzania-based midfielder Precious Christopher.

The squad also welcomes back forward Gift Monday of Washington Spirit, as well as experienced midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, who recently returned to club football in Canada after maternity leave. However, Saudi Arabia-based striker Asisat Oshoala was left out of the selection.

Defender Chidinma Okeke, now fully recovered from a prolonged injury layoff, also earned a recall.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade headlines the list, alongside first-choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The defensive unit includes Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Oluwatosin Demehin and Ashley Plumptre, while Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini strengthen the midfield. Rinsola Babajide and Folashade Ijamilusi complete the attacking options.

Monday’s last appearance for Nigeria came in October 2024 during friendly matches against Algeria. Meanwhile, the 32-year-old Okobi-Okeoghene returns after giving birth to her first child and resuming action with Ottawa Rapid FC in Canada.

The Super Falcons will face the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon in a two-legged friendly series, with the first encounter scheduled for February 28 and the reverse fixture set for March 3.

Nigeria secured qualification for the 13th edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations following a 2-0 away victory in Cotonou and a 1-1 draw in Abeokuta against Benin Republic. The tournament will take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3.

The upcoming appearance will mark Nigeria’s 16th consecutive participation at the continental showpiece, the longest streak in African women’s football. All four semi-finalists at the tournament will automatically qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.