Eguavoen Allays Fears Over Absence of Key Players as Falcons Battle Comoros on Friday
Marvelous DavidInterim Head Coach of the Super Falcons, Augustine Eguavoen, has dismissed fears in some quarters that the withdrawal of three key players from the team ahead of the LA
Super Falcons Coach Augustine Eguavoen has addressed concerns over the absence of three key players ahead of their upcoming match against Comoros, declaring his confidence in the team's ability to triumph. Speaking before the game in Ikenne on Friday, Eguavoen emphasized that the team's replacements possess the necessary skills and experience to contribute significantly to the squad's success.
He highlighted that everyone has settled well in the training camp, boasting a full roster of 21 players, and expressed their focus on fielding a strong, competitive team for the two matches. The squad, which included 14 players initially, was bolstered by the arrival of Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and six other members, bringing the total number of players to 21.
The additions comprised Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Janet Akekoromowei, as the team continued its preparations at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo. The key players, including goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Gift Monday, Joy Omewa, and Uchenna Kanu, were also anticipated to join the squad soon.
Nigeria had already qualified directly for the second round following a bye, while Comoros clinched their spot by defeating Sudan 30-0 in the aggregate. The Falcons' journey to the Olympic qualifiers follows a disappointing Women's Africa Cup of Nations campaign and their inability to secure a berth at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Despite these setbacks, Nigeria secured a return to the women's Olympic football tournament at Paris 2024 and now aims to secure another Olympic berth in Los Angeles in 2028.
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