CAF Suspends Demehin, Echegini Ahead Of Falcons’ Crucial Egypt Clash
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have been dealt a major blow ahead of their decisive Group C encounter against Egypt at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following the suspension of two key players by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Defender Oluwatosin Demehin and midfielder Jennifer Echegini will both miss the match after disciplinary sanctions arising from Nigeria’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Demehin received a straight red card in the 40th minute after bringing down Zambia captain and striker Barbra Banda during a dangerous counter-attack.
The dismissal forced the Super Falcons to play with 10 players for more than 50 minutes, but Justin Madugu’s side showed resilience to hold on for a vital victory.
Echegini, meanwhile, picked up a yellow card in the second half, her second caution of the tournament, triggering an automatic one-match suspension under CAF regulations.
The suspensions leave head coach Justin Madugu with difficult selection decisions as Nigeria seek a place in the knockout stage.
With Demehin unavailable and Ashleigh Plumptre sidelined by injury, Shukurat Oladipo is expected to step into central defence alongside veteran Osinachi Ohale.
Another option could see Christy Ucheibe deployed in a deeper role after impressing in defence during the latter stages of the Zambia game.
In midfield, experienced campaigner Halimatu Ayinde could be drafted in to partner Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun, while Toni Payne remains an option for a more creative role.
Omorinsola Babajide could also feature, allowing captain Rasheedat Ajibade to operate centrally.
Meanwhile, defender Michelle Alozie, who was named Woman of the Match against Zambia, underwent a routine anti-doping test after the game.
The Chicago Stars FC player delivered a standout performance, switching from right-back to left-back following Demehin’s dismissal and helping Nigeria preserve their slim lead.
Alozie remained at the stadium after the match to complete the mandatory procedure and later praised her teammates for their determination rather than focusing on her individual accolade.
Nigeria now face a stern test against Egypt as Madugu looks to reshuffle his squad and guide the nine-time African champions into the quarter-finals.
Defender Oluwatosin Demehin and midfielder Jennifer Echegini will both miss the match after disciplinary sanctions arising from Nigeria’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Demehin received a straight red card in the 40th minute after bringing down Zambia captain and striker Barbra Banda during a dangerous counter-attack.
The dismissal forced the Super Falcons to play with 10 players for more than 50 minutes, but Justin Madugu’s side showed resilience to hold on for a vital victory.
Echegini, meanwhile, picked up a yellow card in the second half, her second caution of the tournament, triggering an automatic one-match suspension under CAF regulations.
The suspensions leave head coach Justin Madugu with difficult selection decisions as Nigeria seek a place in the knockout stage.
With Demehin unavailable and Ashleigh Plumptre sidelined by injury, Shukurat Oladipo is expected to step into central defence alongside veteran Osinachi Ohale.
Another option could see Christy Ucheibe deployed in a deeper role after impressing in defence during the latter stages of the Zambia game.
In midfield, experienced campaigner Halimatu Ayinde could be drafted in to partner Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun, while Toni Payne remains an option for a more creative role.
Omorinsola Babajide could also feature, allowing captain Rasheedat Ajibade to operate centrally.
Meanwhile, defender Michelle Alozie, who was named Woman of the Match against Zambia, underwent a routine anti-doping test after the game.
The Chicago Stars FC player delivered a standout performance, switching from right-back to left-back following Demehin’s dismissal and helping Nigeria preserve their slim lead.
Alozie remained at the stadium after the match to complete the mandatory procedure and later praised her teammates for their determination rather than focusing on her individual accolade.
Nigeria now face a stern test against Egypt as Madugu looks to reshuffle his squad and guide the nine-time African champions into the quarter-finals.
