Nine-time African champions Nigeria are set to embark on a journey to Douala, the industrial and economic hub of Cameroon, on Wednesday night, as they continue their quest for a spot in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament after an absence of 16 years.
The last time the Super Falcons graced the Olympic stage was in 2008, where they exited at the group stage in China. Subsequent attempts to qualify for London 2012 were thwarted by Cameroon in a penalty shootout, while Equatorial Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire dashed their hopes for Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, respectively.
Now, having triumphed over Ethiopia in the second round, the Falcons face the daunting task of overcoming the Cameroonian hurdle to advance to the final qualification stage.
A victory would set them up against another contender in two months’ time.
The first leg against the Indomitable Lionesses will take place at Douala’s Stade de la Reunification on Friday evening, officiated by Ugandan officials. Shamirah Nabadda will serve as the referee, assisted by Lydia Nantabo, Jane Mutonyi, and Diana Murungi. Khadija Rezzag from Morocco will be the referee assessor, with Lukusa Kanjinga from the Democratic Republic of Congo acting as the commissioner.
Coach Randy Waldrum has assembled a squad of 21 players for the trip, who will then head to Abuja for the return leg against the Lionesses on Monday evening.
