Eguavoen confident Nigeria can overcome Olympic qualifier absences

Super Falcons interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen says Nigeria’s preparations for their 2028 Olympic qualifying tie against Comoros have not been disrupted by the withdrawal of several established players.

Nigeria will meet Comoros in a two-leg second-round tie, with both matches being played at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on 9 and 13 October.

The fixtures were moved to Nigeria after Comoros failed to provide a football pitch of a suitable standard to host the games.

Among those unavailable to Nigeria are Asisat Oshoala, Oluwatosin Demehin, Flourish Sabastine and Ashleigh Plumptre. Despite the absences, Eguavoen believes the players who remain in camp can deliver a strong performance over the two matches.

“It is true that we have a number of withdrawals, notably Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin,” Eguavoen was quoted by thenff.com.

“However, I have confidence in their replacements as these players 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.”

Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe, who was called up late, is the only player still expected to arrive at the team’s camp in Ijebu-Ode.

Eguavoen’s squad will be led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade as Nigeria begin their attempt to qualify for a second successive Women’s Football Tournament of the Olympic Games. The Super Falcons appeared at Paris 2024.

Nigeria must eliminate Comoros over the two legs to reach the third round of the five-round African qualifying series. That third-round tie is scheduled to be played in March 2027.

The Super Falcons’ two fixtures against Comoros will therefore determine whether they remain in contention for another Olympic appearance, with the back-to-back matches taking place on home soil.