- zalebs

Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has played down concerns that several player withdrawals could disrupt Nigeria’s bid to progress from their 2028 Olympic Women’s Football Tournament qualifying tie against Comoros.

Falcons prepare for two-match Comoros tie

Nigeria will face Comoros twice at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on 9 and 13 October. Both fixtures are being staged in Nigeria because Comoros does not have a standard football ground. The winner on aggregate will advance to the third round of Africa’s five-stage qualifying campaign.

Eguavoen acknowledged the absences of Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin, but said the players brought in to replace them were capable of making a decisive contribution.

“We have had several withdrawals, including Oshoala, Plumptre and Demehin, but I trust the quality and experience of those who have come in,” Eguavoen said. “They can play an important role in helping us overcome Comoros. The entire group has integrated well, and the squad is now complete apart from one player. Our priority is to field a strong and competitive team across both games.”

Belarus-based attacker Blessing Okpe, who was invited late, remains the only player still expected to arrive at the team’s camp in Ijebu-Ode.

Ajibade leads Olympic qualification push

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will spearhead Nigeria’s attempt to reach the Olympic Women’s Football Tournament for a second successive edition. The Super Falcons competed at Paris 2024.

Progress against Comoros would send the 10-time African champions into the third round, with that stage scheduled to be decided in March 2027.