Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen says the Super Falcons have enough quality and experience to cope with several withdrawals before their 2028 Olympics Women’s Football Tournament qualifying tie against Comoros.
Nigeria will face Comoros over two legs on 9th and 13th October, with both matches being played at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo because Comoros do not have a standard football pitch in their country.
The fixtures form part of the five-round African qualifying series, with the aggregate winners advancing to the third round.
Eguavoen’s original squad has been affected by the withdrawals of Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin, but the interim coach insists their replacements can make a significant contribution.
“It is true that we have a number of withdrawals, notably Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin. However, I have confidence in their replacements as these ones also have the quality and experience to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success against Comoros,” he said.
“Everyone has settled in well in camp as we have a full house now, and our focus is to present a strong and competitive squad for the two matches.”
Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe, who received a late invitation, is the only player still expected to arrive at the team’s camp in Ijebu-Ode.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead Nigeria’s bid to qualify for a second successive Women’s Football Tournament at the Olympics. The Super Falcons featured at Paris 2024.
The 10-time African champions will reach the third round if they defeat Comoros on aggregate. That stage of the qualifying competition will be decided in March 2027.
Super Falcons squad in camp
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Christiana Uzoma
Defenders: Farida Abdulwahab, Sandra John, Tumininu Adeshina, Valentina Uroko, Glory Edet, Shukurat Oladipo, Glory Ogbonna
Midfielders: Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Favour Omenazu, Joy Igbokwe, Jennifer Echegini, Fatimoh Solaty, Suliat Abideen
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade, Shakirat Moshood, Blessing Nkor, Sandra John, Folashade Ijamilusi, Janet Akekoromowei, Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday, Joy Omewa
Expected: Blessing Okpe (forward)