Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-26 03:55:19
Coach Randy Waldrum has announced his squad of 22 players for the upcoming two-legged Paris Olympics final qualifying fixture against South Africa. The team includes familiar faces such as captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Africa queen Asisat Oshoala, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Additionally, Saudi Arabia-based defender Ashley Plumptre, veteran Osinachi Ohale, midfielder Deborah Abiodun, and forwards Esther Okoronkwo and Uchenna Kanu have been called up.
Notable inclusions in the squad are 2019 World Cup star Chidinma Okeke, forward Chiwendu Ihezuo, and U-20 defender Shukurat Oladipo who receives her first invitation. The Super Falcons will play the first leg on April 5 in Abuja, with the return leg scheduled for April 9 in Pretoria. The winner over the two legs will secure one of Africa’s two tickets to the women’s Olympic football tournament, with Zambia and Morocco competing for the other spot.
Waldrum has shown confidence in regular players like Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, and Gift Monday. The squad also includes goalkeepers Tochukwu Oluehi and Linda Jiwuaku. The defensive lineup comprises Ohale, Plumptre, Oladipo, Alozie, Nicole Payne, and Chidinma Okeke. The midfielders in the squad are Abiodun, Ayinde, Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini, Ajibade, and Payne. The forward line features Babajide, Okoronkwo, Onumonu, Oshoala, Kanu, Monday, and Ihezuo.
This squad brings a mix of experience and youth, with established names alongside promising newcomers. The team will face a tough challenge against South Africa in their quest to secure a spot in the Olympics. The coaching staff will be counting on the collective effort of the players to deliver strong performances in both legs of the qualification fixture.
The upcoming matches provide an opportunity for the Super Falcons to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. The players will be aiming to make their mark and contribute to the team’s success in the pursuit of Olympic qualification. With a talented squad at their disposal, Waldrum and his coaching staff will be looking to harness the potential of the players and guide them towards achieving their goals.
Overall, the squad announcement has generated excitement and anticipation among fans, as they eagerly await the showdown between the Super Falcons and South Africa. The team’s preparations will be crucial in the lead-up to the qualifying fixtures, as they seek to overcome their opponents and secure a place in the prestigious women’s Olympic football tournament.
