Nigeria defender Ashleigh Plumptre has broken her silence after being left out of Nigeria's squad for the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), confirming that she is still recovering from injury.

The 27-year-old centre-back, who was instrumental in Nigeria's triumphant WAFCON 2024 campaign, revealed that she is giving her body the time it needs to fully heal before making a return to competitive football.

In an emotional message shared on social media, Plumptre admitted she is disappointed to miss the tournament but remains optimistic about representing Nigeria again in the future.

"The body is asking for more time and I'm listening ❤️‍🩹

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 🫀"

Plumptre's omission was among the biggest surprises when Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu unveiled his 25-player squad for the continental tournament in Morocco.

The Saudi Arabia-based defender established herself as one of Nigeria's most reliable performers during the Super Falcons' successful WAFCON 2024 title-winning campaign, making her absence a significant setback for the nine-time African champions.

Despite being unavailable, Plumptre has called on Nigerians to rally behind the team as they bid to defend their continental crown and claim a record-extending 11th Women's Africa Cup of Nations title.

The Super Falcons have been drawn in Group C, where they will face Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi, with all of their group-stage fixtures scheduled to take place in Rabat.

Nigeria will be aiming to begin their title defence on a winning note as they continue their quest to remain Africa's most successful women's national team.