Nigeria interim head coach Austin Eguavoen has warned Comoros that visiting teams should expect a difficult challenge on Nigerian soil as the Super Falcons begin their bid to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
The 10-time African champions face Comoros in a two-legged second-round qualifying tie, with both matches scheduled to take place in Ikenne-Remo on 9 and 13 October.
Nigeria are seeking to qualify for a second consecutive Olympic women’s football tournament after featuring at Paris 2024. Eguavoen is confident his side can make a strong start to their campaign, although he has stressed the importance of respecting their opponents.
The Super Falcons will look to capitalise on home advantage in both encounters, knowing that their progression to the next round will be determined by the aggregate score.
Eguavoen confident despite squad withdrawals
Nigeria’s preparations have been affected by several withdrawals, including forward Asisat Oshoala and defenders Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin.
However, Eguavoen has played down concerns over the absences, expressing confidence in the players available to him as the Super Falcons seek to secure a comfortable victory.
The interim coach has focused on the strength of his remaining squad, insisting that attention must remain on the task ahead rather than the players who are unavailable.
Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe, who received a late call-up, is the only player still expected to join the team in camp in Ijebu-Ode.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead Nigeria’s challenge as they pursue a place at Los Angeles 2028, with the African qualifying competition featuring five rounds.
The Super Falcons must navigate the remaining stages successfully to secure their place at the Games and build on their appearance at Paris 2024.
Super Falcons squad for Comoros ties
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Christiana Uzoma.
Defenders: Farida Abdulwahab, Sandra John, Tumininu Adeshina, Valentina Uroko, Glory Edet, Shukurat Oladipo, Glory Ogbonna.
Midfielders: Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Favor Omenazu, Joy Igbokwe, Jennifer Echegini, Fatimoh Solaty, Suliat Abideen.
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade, Shakirat Moshood, Blessing Nkor, Sandra John, Folashade Ijamilusi, Janet Akekoromowei, Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday, Joy Omewa.
Nigeria will be keen to avoid an early setback against Comoros and take a significant step towards qualifying for the 2028 Olympics. With confidence high despite the squad changes, Eguavoen’s immediate priority is to ensure the Super Falcons deliver the performances needed to progress to the next round.
