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

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 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.

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!”

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.

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.

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.