Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Press Release
Published on 2024-03-31 09:58:44
The Super Falcons of Nigeria are gearing up for their African final qualifying fixture against the Banyana Banyana of South Africa for the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament. This crucial match will determine one of the two teams that will represent Africa at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The first leg will take place at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, with the return leg scheduled for the Loftus Versfeld arena in Pretoria.
The team captain and chief motivator, Rasheedat Ajibade, along with home-based goalkeeper Linda Jiwuaku and defender Jumoke Alani, will be among the first to arrive at the camp. Ajibade’s skills and experience were instrumental in the Falcons’ success at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Down Under, where they reached the Round of 16. Other players like Shukurat Oladipo, Tochukwu Oluehi, Chidinma Okeke, and Gift Monday are expected to join the camp early next week.
The Falcons are extra motivated for this fixture as they have not beaten the Banyana in regulation time for many years. The South Africans clinched the Women Africa Cup of Nations trophy last year, defeating the Falcons 2-1 in the group phase. Despite this, Nigeria remains a dominant force in African women’s football, boasting nine of the 12 titles contested so far.
The Nigerian squad is a mix of youth and experience, with players like goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders like Osinachi Ohale and Michelle Alozie, midfielders Halimatu Ayinde and Christy Ucheibe, and forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Uchenna Kanu. The team will rely on the skills and determination of these players to secure a victory against South Africa.
The Falcons have a history of success against the Banyana, having defeated them in a penalty shootout to win their ninth title in 2018. Both legs of the upcoming fixture promise to be of high quality and intensity, with both teams vying for a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The Super Falcons have a strong lineup of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, all ready to give their best on the field. With a blend of talent from various leagues across the world, the team is well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
As the countdown to the qualifiers begins, fans eagerly await the clash between these two powerhouse teams. The Super Falcons are determined to emerge victorious and secure their spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The stage is set for an electrifying showdown between Nigeria and South Africa in the quest for Olympic glory.
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