Super Falcons interim head coach Justin Madugu has addressed the growing speculation surrounding Asisat Oshoala’s continued absence from the Nigerian women’s national team.

The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year was once again left out of the 23-player squad announced for Nigeria’s double-header friendly against Cameroon, raising further doubts over her future with the team.

Oshoala, who now plays for Bay FC in the American NWSL, last featured for Nigeria at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Since then, she has been conspicuously absent from successive call-ups, missing friendly matches against Algeria, France, and now Cameroon.

While fans have voiced concerns about what appears to be a consistent snub, Madugu insists the decision is not permanent.

Speaking to Brila.net, Madugu downplayed rumours of a falling-out or retirement, saying Oshoala remains an important figure within the Super Falcons setup.

“Her leadership and experience are not in doubt,” he said. “We are simply trying to open the door for new players to gain international exposure. Asisat is still very much a part of this team.”

Despite the coach’s reassurances, Oshoala’s exclusion raises eyebrows given her pedigree.

The former Barcelona Femeni striker remains Nigeria’s most recognisable female footballer, yet she has now gone seven matches without a goal for Bay FC – a dip in form that could be influencing her absence.

The newly released squad features a blend of youth and experience, including defensive stalwarts Osinachi Ohale and Oluwatosin Demehin, midfield dynamo Deborah Abiodun, and in-form attackers Jennifer Echegini, Francisca Ordega, and Ifeoma Onumonu.

Nigeria will host Cameroon at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday, 31st May, before a return leg in Abeokuta on Tuesday, 3rd June.

The matches serve as preparation for the upcoming 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, where Nigeria have been drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.

Cameroon, meanwhile, will use the friendlies to stay sharp after missing out on WAFCON qualification.