The Super Falcons are soaring high as they progress to next phase of the championship in defence of their crown as a reigning champ.
Super Falcons standing up to first Defeat
Nigeria Super Falcons lost their opening game against the Bayana Bayana of South Africa 2-1 on Monday 4th at the Morocco 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, there was a lot of unrest within their camp and back home from the fans.
The Nigeria women's national team coach came under fire from the media and fans as to whether the American gaffer is capable enough to manage the national team. Also, British born Nigerian Plumptre Ashleigh reacted soberly to some team players who did not give their best in the match.
The Super Falcons were outmatched and fell prey to the strategy and tactics of the energetic and young South African side according to Bayana Bayana coach at Press statement.
As if that was not enough in attachment to the defeat, the Super Falcons lost poster girl and record four-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala to injury, as she was ruled out of the rest of the tournament is reportedly flew to Spain for medical treatment.
Match Day 2 Victory
The Bostwana victory in their day 2 match breath fresh renewal for the chance of progressing through to the quarter finals, yesterday night the falcons sealed that progression after swallowing the swallows of Burundi.
However, for a deeply talented side like Nigeria, head coach Randy Waldrum made some changes to the team and has since been reaping the benefits.
“We played very well in the first half and were in control of the game but then we became a bit sloppy in the second half. There is definitely room for improvement, but I like the trajectory of the team so far,” explained Waldrum after the game.
Nigeria Super Falcons have now kept two clean sheets at the WAFCON 2022 and according to Randy Waldrum, things are starting to look good for them just according to plan.
“We are improving in every game that we play. We execute our plans well and I am happy with the way the players have reacted in our last two games. We have urgency in the way that we play.”
“We have also given an opportunity to younger players to get a feel of the tournament, so that we can also rest some of the players that have played heavy minutes.”
“I am very impressed. You can see tonight. We started Uchenna [Kanu] and she came through. Rasheedat [Ajibade] was great today. Peace [Ewomazino Efih] and Uchenna were great in the midfield. We have talent that is very beneficial. We have more good players to select from. I have confidence in what we are doing and we are in a really good place.”
Nigeria women's national team have scored the most goals in the tournament, finding the back of the net an incredible seven times while only conceding twice – both goals from South Africa
The Super Falcons will lock horns with Cameroon national team at the quarter finals.