The Super Falcons of Nigeria will take on South Africa in the second leg of their Paris 2024 Olympics qualifiers on Tuesday at the Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, Soccernet.ng reports.
The two African giants clash in a potentially thrilling encounter on Tuesday in a game that could determine the direction of one of the two Olympic tickets. In the first leg which was played last Friday, the Super Falcons claimed a 1-0 win.
From the way first leg panned out, fans can be sure of a spectacle in the second leg.
Ahead of the game, Soccernet.ng highlights five players that would be key for Nigeria in their quest.
Osinachi Ohale
At 32, Ohale is the oldest player in Nigeria’s backline, and she would tasked with leading from behind. Nigeria would have a lot of defending to do, and Ohale would have to repel the attacks alongside the other defenders. Kgatlana’s effect was neutralized last time out, but the Super Falcons can’t rest on their oars yet as coach Desiree Ellis could have other plans in the works.
Chiamaka Nnadozie
The Paris FC shot-stopper has been superb for the Super Falcons in the last two years. In fact, she has been a mainstay in the team. The Super Falcons are expected to receive a barrage of attacks and shots. So, Nnadozie will have a lot of work to do.
Deborah Abiodun
The boisterous midfielder will be expected to produce one of her classic performances in Pretoria on Tuesday. Her work rate would come in handy again against the Banyana Banyana. The Super Falcons just need to avoid a loss, and a solid midfield performance would aid their cause.
Rasheedat Ajibade
The Atletico Femini star has been been brilliant for the Super Falcons in recent years. She has scored three goals in her last five games for Nigeria, including the first leg against South Africa. She will have to be at her best if the Super Falcons want to get anything from the second leg.
Asisat Oshoala
The Bay FC striker has not exactly covered herself in glory since the 2023 Women’s World Cup, but she could turn up against the Banyana Banyana. She did not play the first leg majorly because she arrived camp late. However, she could return to the starting eleven this time.
