The Super Falcons are set to build on their impressive start to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign as they prepare to face Botswana in their second Group B match this evening in Casablanca, Morocco.
The nine-time African champions made a significant impact in their opening match, achieving a 3-0 victory over Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
A second consecutive win against Botswana will secure them an early place in the quarter-finals of the newly expanded 12-team tournament.
Nigeria and Botswana last faced each other during the 2022 tournament, which was also held in Morocco, where goals from Ifeoma Onumonu and Christy Ucheibe led to a comfortable 2-0 victory for the West Africans.
This time, Head Coach Justine Madugu has a plethora of attacking options, with in-form players such as Esther Okoronkwo, who was awarded Woman of the Match against Tunisia,Jennifer Echegini, Rinsola Babajide, and Chinwendu Ihezuo all anticipated to challenge the Southern Africans.
They will be accompanied by seasoned stars including Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, and Toni Payne.
In the midfield, Madugu may choose a combination of Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, and Jennifer Echegini to ensure creativity and control.
Also see: NNL Playoffs: Ozoro Stadium to host crucial promotion matches
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is expected to remain in goal, supported defensively by experienced players Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Ashley Plumptre, and Tosin Demehin.
“As I mentioned before the tournament, we are committed to our Mission X,” stated Coach Madugu. “Winning against Botswana is a strong possibility, but we are approaching it one game at a time, without underestimating any opponent.”
The match is scheduled to commence at 8:00 p.m. local time at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
