The Super Falcons of Nigeria have officially kicked off their preparations for the Paris Olympics qualifiers against South Africa, with team captain Athletico De Madrid Feminino’s Rasheedat Ajibade and goalkeeper Tochukwu Oluehi who plays for Shualat Alsharqia FC in Saudi Arabia leading the arrival of players in camp. Joined by head coach Randy Waldrum, assistant coach Kyle, and the entire backroom staff, the team is currently hosted at the Bolton White Apartment in Zone 7, Abuja.
The upcoming qualifiers marks a crucial opportunity for the Nigerian Women’s Senior team to secure their spot in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, having missed out on the past three editions. Their last appearance dates back to the 2008 Beijing games, and they are determined to break the streak of unsuccessful qualification campaigns.
Meanwhile, the Bayana Bayana of South Africa have also arrived in Nigeria, landing on Sunday, March 31st, and are scheduled to commence training at the Central Area Abuja today. With both teams gearing up for intense encounters, anticipation is high for the upcoming matches.
The first leg of the qualifiers is set to take place at the MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday, April 5th, where the Falcons will host the reigning African champions. The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9th, at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. The stakes are high, as the winner over two legs will secure a coveted spot in the football event of the Olympic Games.
Reflecting on their previous encounter with South Africa in the 2022 group stage, which ended in a 2-1 defeat for the Falcons, the team is determined to turn the tables and emerge victorious this time around. With a renewed sense of determination and unity, the Falcons are ready to give their all and pursue their Olympic dreams.
