Austine Eguavoen hoping to lead Super Falcons into next Olympic qualifying round

Austine Eguavoen says Nigeria can improve further under his guidance after the Super Falcons swept aside Comoros 5-0 to reach the third round of the 2028 Olympic Games women's football qualifiers.

The result in Ikenne on Tuesday, October 13 completed a 7-0 aggregate victory, with Nigeria now set to face Morocco's Atlas Lionesses.

Eguavoen remains interim coach and no confirmation has been given that he will continue in charge. However, he indicated that more time with the squad would allow the technical crew to develop the team's performances, particularly because some players joined the group late.

He also recognised that he could return to his office if another coach is appointed.

Nigeria dominate second leg

The Super Falcons carried a 2-0 lead into the return match but produced a stronger attacking display at home.

Uchenna Kanu and Toni Payne each scored twice, while Christy Ucheibe completed the victory from the penalty spot. Nigeria's three second-half goals came within eight minutes before the late penalty secured a five-goal margin.

Eguavoen was pleased with the way the players responded to his demands during training and credited them with transferring that work into the match. He had previously appealed for the squad's support as he settled into the interim role.

Nigeria completed the tie without conceding across either leg and made a convincing start to their pursuit of qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

Eguavoen acknowledges Comoros improvement

Although Comoros had been beaten 2-0 in the first meeting, Eguavoen felt the visitors offered a greater challenge in Ikenne.

Their approach was more competitive and required Nigeria to maintain its intensity before the hosts pulled away after the interval. Eguavoen suggested the aggregate deficit had given Comoros a different mentality, with little left for them to lose.

Despite that improvement, Nigeria's attacking quality decided the contest. The Super Falcons eventually converted their pressure into five goals and secured progression without allowing Comoros to score.

Eguavoen said the side could be even stronger in the next round if he remains in charge, while acknowledging that his future has not been settled.

Okpe earns praise after late call-up

Eguavoen also praised Blessing Okpe, whose late arrival in the squad followed another player's withdrawal.

The coach said the opportunity had proved worthwhile and highlighted the competition for places within the team. He indicated that he had already considered recommending Okpe to the team's director if he leaves his position.

Nigeria's third-round tie against Morocco is scheduled to take place over two legs between February 23 and March 6, 2027. The meeting with Morocco's Atlas Lionesses will provide a sterner test as the Super Falcons continue their African qualifying campaign for Los Angeles 2028.