'Congratulations, Toni' - Everton hail Nigeria Super Falcons star after Mission X deployment to Morocco

'Congratulations, Toni' - Everton hail Nigeria Super Falcons star after Mission X deployment to Morocco

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:46 - 21.06.2025

The Toffees have wished their midfielder well ahead of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations after she was named in the Super Falcons squad.

English club Everton Women have officially congratulated their midfielder Toni Payne after she was named in Nigeria’s 24-player squad for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). 

The announcement highlights Payne’s growing influence and importance within the Super Falcons setup as they prepare for the continental tournament in Morocco from July 5 to 26.

Super Falcons Mission X squad

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu included six-time African Player of the Year nominee, the prolific Asisat Oshoala and Payne in the star-studded squad that also features captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. 

Nigeria will be aiming to secure a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, with the team considered one of the favourites in the competition.

Toni Payne is heading to the WAFCON.

What Everton said

Everton took to social media to celebrate Payne’s international call-up, posting:

“Toni Payne has been named in Nigeria's squad to travel to the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations! Congratulations, Toni! Good luck with Naija!”

Toni Payne joined Everton in 2024.

At 30 years old, Payne’s inclusion marks another milestone in her career as she prepares to showcase her talents again on Africa’s biggest football stages. 

Her experience in the NSWL will be vital as Nigeria faces tough competition in Group B against Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

Toni Payne || Imago

Falcons warmup

In preparation for the tournament, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has scheduled warm-up matches against Portugal on June 23 in Lisbon and Ghana’s Black Queens on June 29 in Morocco. 

These fixtures aim to sharpen the Super Falcons ahead of their WAFCON campaign following games against Cameroon and Algeria.

Coach Justine Madugu says the 10th title is possible for Nigeria.

With Everton’s backing and a strong squad behind her, Payne will hope to make a significant impact for Nigeria in the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.