Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has warned Nigeria not to relax as they aim to seal progress against Comoros in Tuesday’s second leg of the 2028 Olympic Games qualifier.
Nigeria hold first-leg advantage
Nigeria, 10-time African champions, take a 2-0 lead into the return fixture after defender Michelle Alozie and striker Uchenna Kanu scored in Friday’s opening match.
- A draw or another victory on Tuesday will send the Super Falcons through to the third round of the five-stage African Olympic qualifying campaign.
- Morocco are scheduled to face the winners in March 2027.
- Both matches are being played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo because Comoros do not have a CAF-approved stadium for international fixtures.
Reaching the next stage would preserve Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for a second Olympics in a row. The Falcons competed at Paris 2024, ending a 16-year absence from the Games.
Nnadozie calls for focus
Nnadozie stressed that country names and past standing can no longer be used to judge the difficulty of an international opponent.
“Football has changed to the point where you cannot define a team simply by the name of its country or anything like that,” she said. “For the next game, we will give everything. The tie is not finished, and we will do all we can to get the job completed.”
The goalkeeper expects Comoros to produce a stronger display as they attempt to overturn the deficit.
“It will not be easy. They will return with everything they have to try to get a point, but we will remain alert, work hard, stay concentrated and make sure we complete the task properly,” Nnadozie added.
Possible changes to the Falcons side
Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen selected Nnadozie for Friday’s first leg, with a blend of established names and newer players in his starting line-up.
- Glory Ogbonna and Alozie operated as wing-backs.
- Christy Ucheibe and Shukurat Oladipo played in central defence.
- Debutant Joy Igbokwe joined Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini in midfield.
- Captain Rasheedat Ajibade started alongside Gift Monday and Kanu in the front line.
The technical staff could make alterations for Tuesday’s match, with young goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma in contention to take over from Nnadozie.
Squad depth available for return leg
Nigeria have further options across the pitch should the coaching team decide to freshen up the side.
- Farida Abdulwahab and Tumininu Adeshina can be used in defence.
- Suliat Abideen made a strong impression after coming on in the second half on Friday and may be handed a place in the starting team.
- Attacking alternatives include former Nigeria U17 captain Shakirat Moshood, Folashade Ijamilusi, Belarus-based pair Blessing Nkor and Blessing Okpe, plus Sweden-based forward Joy Omewa.
