The Nigerian Football Federation has officially revealed the formidable squad of 21 players set to participate in the crucial third preliminary round of the 2024 Women’s Olympic Football Tournament qualifiers. The Super Falcons are poised to face arch-rivals Cameroon in a highly anticipated clash, with the first leg scheduled at the Reunification Stadium in Douala on February 23, followed by the return leg at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on February 26.
Among the notable inclusions in the squad are Ashleigh Plumptre and Asisat Oshoala, who make a return after an absence following the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Plumptre, who underwent a change of clubs and now represents Ittihad Ladies in Saudi Arabia, has regained form, while Oshoala, who suffered an injury setback, has successfully resumed training.
The squad boasts a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, reflecting the rich diversity of Nigerian women’s football.
The goalkeeping department features the trio of Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC), Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia), and Linda Jiwuaku (Bayelsa Queens).
In defense, the team showcases the likes of Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico), Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia), Oluwatosin Demehin (Stade de Reims, France), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA), Akudo Ogbonna (Remo Stars Ladies), and Rofiat Imuran (Stade de Reims, France).
The midfield is anchored by Deborah Abiodun (University of Pittsburgh, USA), Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosengard, Sweden), Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal), Jennifer Echegini (Juventus Ladies, Italy), Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid FC, Spain), and Toni Payne (Sevilla FC, Spain).
The forward line features a potent attacking force with Omorinsola Babajide (Coasta Adeje Tenerife, Spain), Esther Okoronkwo (Henan FC, China), Ifeoma Onumonu (SLC Utah, USA), Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC, Spain), Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville, USA), and Gift Monday (Coasta Adeje Tenerife, Spain).
The collective prowess of this squad underlines Nigeria’s commitment to securing victory and progressing to the next stage of Olympic qualification.
Football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the showdown between Nigeria and Cameroon, anticipating a thrilling spectacle between two fierce competitors.
