The Nigerian Super Falcons are preparing to face South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in an Olympic Games qualifier at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja this Friday.
This match is anticipated to be fiercely competitive, as both teams aim to secure a victory and move closer to qualifying for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
The Super Falcons seek to capitalize on their recent triumph over Cameroon and their historical dominance over South Africa in key matches. Conversely, Banyana Banyana, fresh from a victory against Tanzania, will rely on seasoned players like Thembi Kgatlana and Refiloe Jane to lead their team.
Head coach Randy Waldrum has selected a 22-player squad for the upcoming match, featuring key players such as Asisat Oshoala, Christy Ucheibe, Chiamaka Nnadozie, and Rasheedat Ajibade. The game promises an exciting clash between evenly-matched teams, each eager for a win.
Following the Abuja match, a return fixture will take place in Pretoria the following Tuesday. The victors will secure a spot at the Paris 2024 Games. Nigeria aims to end a 16-year Olympic absence, while South Africa seeks to qualify after missing the last two editions.
The 2024 Olympics in Paris are scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11. Emmanuel Brown, a former TTC Football Academy coach, predicts a closely contested match with Nigeria having a slight edge over South Africa.
He emphasizes the need for the Super Falcons to approach the game with confidence and not rely solely on past victories, acknowledging the determination of Banyana Banyana to put up a strong fight. Brown anticipates key players like Asisat Oshoala and Thembi Kgatlana to play pivotal roles in what promises to be an intense encounter at the Moshood Abiola Stadium.
