LA 2028 Olympics Race: Eguavoen says withdrawals will not affect Falcons against Comoros

Interim Head Coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has dismissed fears in some quarters that a number of withdrawals from his original list of invitees for the 2028 Olympics Women’s Football Tournament qualifying fixture against Comoros could impact against a smooth ride for the Super Falcons.

Nigeria lock horns with Comoros in a two-leg affair (both matches are being hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo as Comoros lack any standard football pitch in their country) on 9th and 13th October respectively, for a place in the third round of the five-round African qualifying series.

“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.

“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.”

Only Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe, a late invitee, is still being expected in the team’s Ijebu-Ode camp.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the charge as the Falcons begin the race for a second consecutive appearance at the Women’s Football Tournament of the Olympics, following their participation in the tournament in Paris 2024.

Victory over Comoros on aggregate will take the 10-time African champions to the third round, which will be resolved in March 2027.

IN CAMP: Goalkeeper: 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: Forward: Blessing Okpe