Super Falcons interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to overcome Comoros in the 2028 Olympic women’s football qualifiers despite the withdrawal of several key players.
Nigeria will face Comoros in a two-legged second-round qualifying tie, with both matches scheduled for October 9 and 13 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State.
The withdrawals of forward Asisat Oshoala and defender Ashley Plumptre have raised concerns about Nigeria’s squad depth ahead of the crucial encounter. Defender Oluwatosin Demehin is also unavailable for the fixtures.
However, Eguavoen insists the absences will not derail the team’s preparations, expressing confidence in the players selected to replace those who have withdrawn.
“It is true that we have several 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,” Eguavoen said, according to the Nigeria Football Federation.
The coach added that the squad had settled into camp and was focused on delivering strong performances across both legs.
Falcons Target Another Olympic Appearance
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the Super Falcons as they begin their quest to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Nigeria returned to the Olympic women’s football tournament at Paris 2024 after a 16-year absence and will be looking to secure consecutive appearances at the Games.
The 10-time African champions received a bye into the second qualifying round and must eliminate Comoros over two legs to progress to the next stage.
Comoros will play the first leg in Ikenne-Remo because the island nation does not have a suitable venue approved for the international fixture. The return leg will take place at the same stadium on October 13.
Victory on aggregate would send Nigeria into the third round of the African qualifying campaign, scheduled for March 2027.
Despite the notable absences, Eguavoen remains confident that his available players can deliver the results needed to keep Nigeria’s Olympic qualification hopes alive.
