In a highly anticipated move, Super Falcons head coach Randy Waldrum has unveiled his 23-player roster for the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics women’s football tournament.
Leading the charge will be inspirational captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who will be leaning on an experienced core of veterans including goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Osinachi Ohale, and talismanic striker Asisat Oshoala.
The squad also features several promising young talents set to make their Olympic debuts, such as defender Oluwatosin Demehin, midfielder Deborah Abiodun, and forward Uchenna Kanu. These up-and-coming stars will complement the team’s seasoned campaigners as Nigeria aims to make a strong impression on the global stage.
“This is a well-balanced squad with the right mix of experience and youthful exuberance,” said Waldrum. “We’ve left no stone unturned in our preparation, and I’m confident this group has what it takes to make Nigeria proud in Paris.”
The team will gather in Abuja this week before linking up with the overseas-based players in Seville, Spain for a pre-tournament training camp. They are scheduled to depart for France on July 18th, just a week before their opening match against powerhouse Brazil on July 25th.
Nigeria, making their first Olympic appearance since 2008, will also face Spain and Japan in the group stage as they look to advance to the knockout rounds of the 12-team tournament.
The Super Falcons secured their place at the Paris Olympics by defeating South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in a thrilling two-leg qualifier back in April. Ajibade’s decisive penalty strike in Abuja proved the difference between the continent’s top two teams.
With the core of the squad intact from their 2023 African Women’s Cup of Nations triumph, the nine-time African champions will be aiming to spring a surprise or two against some of the world’s best teams in France this summer.
