Super Falcons on brink of Olympic qualifying third round after Comoros win

Nigeria’s Super Falcons need only to protect their advantage against Comoros on Tuesday to reach the third round of the five-stage African qualifying series for the 2028 Olympics Women’s Football Tournament.

The 10-time African champions won the first meeting 2-0 on Friday, with defender Michelle Alozie and forward Uchenna Kanu scoring the goals. The result puts Nigeria in a strong position as they seek a second consecutive Olympic appearance following their participation at the Paris 2024 Games.

That tournament was Nigeria’s first Olympic women’s football appearance in 16 years.

The return fixture will also take place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo. Comoros do not have a venue approved by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host international matches, meaning Nigeria have home advantage for both matches in the tie.

Interim Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen and his assistants selected Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal for Friday’s match. Glory Ogbonna and Michelle Alozie operated as wing-backs, while Christy Ucheibe and Shukurat Oladipo formed the centre-back partnership.

Debutant Joy Igbokwe, Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini were deployed in midfield. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade joined Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu in attack.

The coaching staff could make changes for Tuesday’s game, with youngster Christiana Uzoma among the goalkeeping options. Farida Abdulwahab and Tumininu Adeshina are also available as defensive alternatives.

Suliat Abideen made a positive impact after coming on during the second half on Friday and could be rewarded with a starting place in the second match.

There are further attacking options in former U17 team captain Shakirat Moshood and Folashade Ijamilusi. Blessing Nkor and Blessing Okpe, who both play in Belarus, are also available, as is Sweden-based Joy Omewa.

Success over the two matches would send Nigeria into a third-round meeting with Morocco, scheduled for March 2027.