Nigeria's Super Falcons are on the brink of securing a spot in the third round of the African qualification series for the 2028 Olympics Women's Football Tournament. The team is set to face Comoros in the second leg of their fixture, with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Goals from defender Michelle Alozie and forward Uchenna Kanu have given the Super Falcons a strong foothold in the competition. The second leg is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.
The Super Falcons, 10-time African champions, are seeking to make their second successive appearance at the Olympics. They participated in the Paris 2024 Games, marking their first Olympic appearance in 16 years. The team is being led by interim Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen, who opted for a strong lineup in the first leg. Chiamaka Nnadozie was deployed in goal, with Glory Ogbonna and Michelle Alozie as wing-backs, and Christy Ucheibe and Shukurat Oladipo as centre-backs.
The Super Falcons' lineup for the first leg also included debutant Joy Igbokwe, Toni Payne, and Jennifer Echegini in midfield, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Gift Monday, and Uchenna Kanu at the fore. For the second leg, the coaching crew may consider changes, including giving youngster Christiana Uzoma a chance in goal. Other players, such as Farida Abdulwahab and Tumininu Adeshina, may also be given opportunities.
Comoros, the Indian Ocean islanders, face a challenge due to the lack of a CAF-approved venue for international matches. This has given Nigeria home advantage for both legs of the fixture. The Super Falcons will look to capitalize on this advantage to secure their place in the third round.
The third-round fixture against Morocco is scheduled to take place in March 2027. The Super Falcons will need to overcome Comoros and then face Morocco to advance their Olympic qualification bid. With a strong team and home advantage, the Super Falcons are confident of securing their place in the next round.
Some players, including Asisat Oshoala and Plumptre, have pulled out of the Super Falcons' Olympic qualifiers. However, the team remains focused on achieving their goal. The Super Falcons have a strong squad, with a mix of experienced and young players.
The Super Falcons' success in the Olympic qualifiers will be a significant boost to Nigerian football. The team's performance will be closely watched by fans and football enthusiasts across the country. With a strong team and determination, the Super Falcons are poised to make a lasting impact in the competition.
Key points
- The Super Falcons have a 2-0 advantage over Comoros from the first leg.
- The third-round fixture against Morocco will take place in March 2027.
- The Super Falcons are seeking to make their second successive appearance at the Olympics.
