Eguavoen: Withdrawals Won’t Affect Falcons Against Comoros

Interim Super Falcons head coach Augustine Eguavoen has dismissed concerns that the withdrawal of several key players could affect Nigeria’s chances of progressing against Comoros in the 2028 Olympic Women’s Football Tournament qualifiers.

Nigeria will face Comoros in a two-leg second-round tie, with both matches scheduled for the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo, on October 9 and 13 because Comoros do not have a standard football pitch in the country.

The Falcons have been hit by the withdrawals of Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin, but Eguavoen said he was confident in the players brought in as replacements.

‘It is true that we have a number of withdrawals, notably Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin. However, I have confidence in their replacements as these ones also have the quality and experience to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success against Comoros.

‘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,’ Eguavoen said.

Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe is the only late invitee still expected in the Falcons’ Ijebu-Ode camp.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the 10-time African champions as they begin their bid for a second successive Olympic appearance following their participation at Paris 2024.

The Falcons must eliminate Comoros over two legs to advance to the third round of the five-round African qualifying series, which will be decided in March 2027.

A successful campaign would take Nigeria another step towards securing a place at the 2028 Olympic Women’s Football Tournament in Los Angeles.