SUPER FALCONS TARGET MAXIMUM POINTS AHEAD OF THEIR CRUNCH TIE AGAINST THE MARES OF BOTSWANA.
Written by AIGBOKHAEBHO OKHUELEIGBE on July 7, 2022
Following a disappointing opening encounter at the ongoing African Women Cup of Nations AWCON, the Super Falcons of Nigeria say they are ready to renew their campaign for the FIFA World Cup ticket and the tournament trophy when they clash with their counterparts from Botswana this Thursday.
The Cup holders suffered a 1-2 defeat to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in the opening match of Group C of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Monday and know their pride is at stake against Botswana, who defeated Burundi 4-2 on Monday night.
First choice goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will return against the Botswanans after missing the first match due to suspension, and the forced departure of Asisat Oshoala means the vibrant Gift Monday or Mexico-based Uchenna Kanu will start in the attack for the nine-time champions.
Midfield ace Rasheedat Ajibade, who scored the only goal against the South Africans, is expected to again be the pivot as the Falcons search for early goals at the Prince Moulay Al-Hassan Stadium in Morocco.
Coach Randy Waldrum is expected to make changes in some departments, with Glory Ogbonna likely to take her place at left-back to allow the energetic Ashleigh Plumptre to return to her accustomed role at center-back alongside Captain Onome Ebi, while Osinachi Ohale moves to right-back.
A win for the super Falcons will calm nerves in Nigeria and allow the team to go into Sunday’s last group game encounter against Burundi, beaming with confidence.
The ‘Mares’, the nickname for the female National team of Botswana will play their Nigerian counterpart, the Super Falcons, at 9 pm Nigerian time.
All semi-finalists at this year’s AWCON competition in Morocco will qualify for next year’s FIFA women’s world cup to be hosted by Australia and New Zealand from Thursday, July 20 – Sunday, August 20, 2023.
