Super Falcons Gear Up for WAFCON 2024 in Morocco
The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s prestigious women’s national football team, are set to make their presence felt in the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament. Arriving in Casablanca, Morocco, on Wednesday, the team is preparing for a fierce competition scheduled to take place from July 5 to July 26.
Arrival and Training
The team’s journey commenced with an early arrival of several players. Among those who touched down in Casablanca on Tuesday were the American-based trio: Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, and Deborah Abiodun. They were joined by their teammates Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, and new invitee Chioma Okafor.
Coach Justin Madugu had a squad of 17 players available for a recent friendly match against Portugal, which ended in a goalless draw. Notably, Chiamaka Nnadozie, the reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year, delivered an outstanding performance, executing a series of impressive saves that kept Nigeria competitive. Francisca Ordega came close to scoring, striking the crossbar in the dying moments of the match.
Upcoming Matches and Rivalries
The remaining members of the Super Falcons, who participated in the friendly against Portugal, are set to depart from Lisbon to Casablanca on Wednesday. They are looking forward to facing their perennial rivals, the Black Queens of Ghana, in another friendly match scheduled for Sunday, June 29. The Black Queens had arrived in Benslimane, Morocco, the previous week to undertake a 14-day training camp in preparation for the tournament.
Aiming for Glory
As the Super Falcons approach the tournament, they are on a quest for their tenth continental title. With an impressive record of nine championships out of 12 tournaments since the inception of the event by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 1998, the Super Falcons have established themselves as the most decorated women’s national team in Africa.
In the upcoming WAFCON tournament, Nigeria has been drawn into Group B, where they will face Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. The Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca has been designated as the venue for their matches. The Super Falcons will kick off their campaign in the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations on July 6 against Tunisia, a match that promises to be an exciting opener for the team.
Key Players to Watch
The Super Falcons boast a roster filled with talent and experience. Key players to watch include:
- Asisat Oshoala: A forward known for her goal-scoring prowess and significant contributions to her club and national team.
- Chiamaka Nnadozie: The standout goalkeeper who has gained recognition for her remarkable skills and ability to perform under pressure.
- Francisca Ordega: A dynamic forward whose speed and agility can create scoring opportunities for her team.
Conclusion
With their rich history and formidable talent, the Super Falcons are primed for a strong showing at the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco. As they prepare to battle for another championship title, fans and supporters eagerly await the team’s performances, hoping to witness yet another milestone in the history of Nigerian women’s football. The competition promises to be intense, and the Super Falcons are ready to rise to the challenge.
