The Super Falcons of Nigeria will kick off their campaign in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games football edition with a high-stakes clash against Brazil.
As nine-time African Women's Cup of Nations champions, Nigeria will enter this opening game with a strong pedigree and a burning desire to make an impressive start.
Nigeria secured their place in the Olympics by narrowly defeating South Africa's Bayana Bayana 1-0 on aggregate. This victory has bolstered their confidence, and they are eager to maintain this winning momentum. Led by experienced players like Asisat Oshoala, the Super Falcons will rely on their attacking prowess and solid defense to overcome Brazil.
Team News:
After weeks of speculation, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled the final roster for the Super Falcons' Olympic squad in Paris, according to a report by Premium Times.
Head Coach Randy Waldrum has opted for a blend of experience and youth, including captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and defender Osinachi Ohale. Star forward Asisat Oshoala also headlines the squad.
Fourteen other players round out the final list, including defenders Oluwatosin Demehin and Michelle Alozie, midfielders Deborah Abiodun, Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, and Toni Payne, as well as forwards Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, and Uchenna Kanu.
Notably absent are veteran players Onome Ebi and Francesca Ordega. Initial reports suggested they were being pushed for inclusion against the coach's wishes, but both players have denied such tactics. Another significant omission is defender Ashleigh Plumptre, currently recovering from an injury. Plumptre, who switched allegiance from England to Nigeria, has quickly become a fan favorite due to her dedication and hard work with the Super Falcons.
This marks a historic moment for the Super Falcons, as it is their first Olympic appearance since 2008. None of the players heading to Paris have previously played in the Olympics, making this a dream come true for many as they aim to make their mark on the global stage.
Check out the full squad below:
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC); Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia)
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachuca Club de Futbol, Mexico); Oluwatosin Demehin (Stade de Reims, France); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Nicole Payne (Portland Thorns FC, USA); Chidinma Okeke (Mynavi Sendai Ladies, Japan)
Midfielders: Deborah Abiodun (University of Pittsburgh, USA); Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosengard, Sweden); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Jennifer Echegini (Juventus Ladies, Italy); Toni Payne (Sevilla FC, Spain)
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid FC, Spain); Esther Okoronkwo (Changchun FC, China); Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC, USA); Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville, USA); Chiwendu Ihezuo (Pachuca Club de Futbol, Mexico); Chinonyerem Macleans (Lokomotiv Moscow, Russia)
Alternate Players: Jumoke Alani (Nasarawa Amazons); Ifeoma Onumonu (Utah Royals, USA); Gift Monday (Costa Adeje Tenerife Egatesa, Spain); Morufa Ademola (Rivers Angels)
Date And Kickoff Time for The Game:
The Super Falcons of Nigeria will be aiming to end their two-game losing streak against Brazil when they square off in their opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games on Thursday, July 25. The game will commence at exactly 6 PM (Nigerian Time).
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