Falcons begin Olympics qualifying campaign against Comoros

File Photo: Super Falcons

The Super Falcons begin their quest for a place at the 2028 Olympic Games on Friday, facing Comoros in the first leg of their second-round African qualifying tie at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne.

For Nigeria, the encounter is the first step in another Olympic qualification journey and an opportunity to make a strong start under interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen.

Eguavoen says the team has settled well into camp and is focused on producing a competitive performance across the two-legged tie.

“Everyone has settled in well in camp as we have a full house now, and our focus is to present a strong and competitive squad for the two matches,” he said.

Comoros will not be short of confidence either. They stormed into the second round after dismantling Sudan 30-0 on aggregate, winning the first leg 17-0 before a 13-0 victory in the return fixture.

The scorelines underline the Comorans’ attacking threat, even though Friday’s meeting represents a significantly tougher test against one of Africa’s most established women’s football sides.

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Nigeria received a bye into the second round, while Comoros had to negotiate the opening phase. The Falcons will now look to use their greater experience and quality to establish an advantage before the return leg on October 13.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to lead Nigeria, with the squad also containing experienced internationals such as Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie, Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini.

The unusual scheduling of the tie means both matches will be played in Nigeria. Friday’s encounter is officially Comoros’ home fixture, but it will take place at the Remo Stars Stadium because the island nation does not have a CAF-approved venue for the tie.

That familiarity with the venue could benefit the Falcons, but Eguavoen will know that the advantage must ultimately be reflected on the scoreboard.

With the Olympic Games in Los Angeles the ultimate target, Nigeria will be keen to avoid unnecessary complications in the opening leg. A convincing result on Friday would give the Falcons a solid platform heading into the second meeting four days later.

For Eguavoen and his players, the message is simple: start well, stay focused and take the first step towards Olympic qualification. The journey begins in Ikenne.