Super Falcons and Al-Ittihad Ladies defender Ashleigh Plumptre has confirmed she will miss the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) due to a fitness setback following foot surgery in March. The 28-year-old England-born centre-back announced her unavailability on social media, stating that her body is not yet ready to meet the physical demands of competitive football.
Plumptre's Recovery Timeline
Plumptre underwent surgery on her right foot in March after persistent injury issues. She has not returned to full fitness since the procedure. In a post on X, she wrote: 'The body is asking for more time, and I'm listening.' She expressed sadness at missing the tournament but urged Nigerian fans to support the squad.
'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. 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.'
Impact on Super Falcons' Defensive Setup
Plumptre's absence is a significant blow to head coach Justine Madugu, who had built much of Nigeria's defensive structure around her experience in the Women's Super League (WSL), physical authority, and composure in possession. Her withdrawal leaves a clear gap at the back that the coaching staff must manage across the tournament.
This is the second major international tournament Plumptre has missed due to injury, having also sat out the 2024 Paris Olympics with an Achilles injury, according to Afrik-Foot.
Nigeria's WAFCON 2026 Campaign
The Super Falcons have been placed in Group C alongside Egypt, Malawi, and Zambia. The squad retains quality, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, forward Uchenna Kanu, and winger Michelle Alozie among the experienced players expected to lead the team. The stakes are high: the top four finishers at WAFCON 2026 secure automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Plumptre Denies NFF Bribery Claims
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Plumptre had to address false allegations of bribery related to WAFCON squad selection. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) also responded to the claims, which were circulated on social media. Plumptre denied the allegations, and the NFF urged the public to disregard false information that could harm players' reputations and the integrity of the sport.
