Falcons coach explains Oshoala’s substitution

Asisat Oshoala, a six-time CAF Women’s Player of the Year, was substituted just before halftime during Nigeria’s 6-2 WAFCON victory over Egypt on Wednesday, according to PUNCH Sports Extra. The substitution, as explained by coach Justine Madugu, was not due to an injury but rather a tactical decision to address a potential drop in energy levels.

Oshoala had given Nigeria the lead in the 21st minute with a penalty kick, and she would go on to score twice at the tournament. Her involvement in the match ended before the half-time break. Madugu noted that the change was made because the energy level had dropped, allowing the Egyptians to settle defensively. Oshoala has won four WAFCON titles with Nigeria since 2014 and has scored in every edition she has played in, except for 2022 when she was injured in Nigeria’s opening game against South Africa.

Nigeria is currently seeking a record-extending 11th WAFCON title, and Oshoala hopes to return to the lineup for the quarter-final match against Cameroon on Sunday.