Paris 2024: Super Falcons Vow to Defeat Visiting Banyana

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown between two powerhouse teams in women’s football! With both Nigeria and South Africa boasting formidable talent and recent successes on the global stage, the upcoming match on Friday at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans and spectators alike, in a highly explosive and no-holds-barred encounter with the eyes of both teams on the Olympics ticket.

The upcoming match is going to be an intense and exciting game. Both teams have shown their strength in women’s football, especially with their performances in the FIFA World Cup and a terrific advertising of the best of women’s football is at hand as from 5pm Nigeria time as the two teams take shots at each other.

The Super Falcons’ impressive performance at the FIFA World Cup showcased their prowess and established them as Africa’s top team. However, the Banyana Banyana’s strong showing in the same tournament demonstrated their competitiveness and determination to challenge the continent’s best. The Super Falcons were Africa’s best team at last year’s FIFA World Cup, but the Banyana Banyana, however, also made it to the Round of 16.

The fact that the South African delegation arrived in Abuja well in advance of the match underscores their commitment and preparation for this crucial encounter. Their dedication to training indicates their readiness to give their all on the field and compete fiercely for the coveted Olympics ticket.

The South African High Commission had since Monday started active mobilization of South Africans living in Nigeria to come and support the reigning African champions.

On Wednesday, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi called on residents of Abuja and environs, including the neighbouring States, to storm the MKO Abiola Stadium in their thousands to cheer the Falcons to victory on Friday evening.

.

Coach Randy Waldrum is most likely to stick to his tested-and-trusted World Cup rearguard, including goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and defenders Michelle Alozie and Osinachi Ohale. In the absence of the injured Oluwatosin Demehin and Ashleigh Plumptre, Alozie could move to left back to give returnee Chidinma Okeke the space on the right, with youngster Shukurat Oladipo likely to pair Osinachi in the centre.

Hard-as-nails Halimatu Ayinde and Christy Ucheibe will spearhead the midfield, with Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and the slippery Deborah Abiodun providing the guile and flamboyance. Uchenna Kanu, Esther Okoronkwo, Jennifer Echegini, Rinsola Babajide, Gift Monday, Asisat Oshoala and the returnee Chiwendu Ihezuo are all options in the attack.

For sure, Coach Desire Ellis also has dependable weapons in her armoury, not least of them the nimble-footed Thembo Kgatlana, as well as Jermain Seoposenwe, both based in Mexico. There’s also the crafty Hildah Magaia, as well as midfielders Linda Motlhalo, Jane Refiloe and Nomvula Kgoale.

“We want our people to come to the stadium and support us. The Super Falcons do not fear any team. With their support, we will play with total confidence and overcome,” said goalkeeper Nnadozie.

The return leg is expected to take place at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Tuesday evening.