Football supporters have voiced their discontent regarding the exclusion of prominent players Asisat Oshoala and Deborah Abiodun from Nigeria’s Super Falcons squad ahead of their international friendly against France on November 30. The Nigeria Football Federation announced a 20-woman roster that features five home-based players alongside 15 professionals currently playing abroad. While the return of Saudi Arabia-based player Ashleigh Plumptre, after a six-month recovery from injury, is welcomed, the lack of other notable names has ignited discussions among fans, particularly on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
Fans expressed their frustrations and concerns about the squad’s strength, particularly in the attacking and defensive lines. User Augustine (@AustinL71449) lamented the reason behind the delay in releasing the squad list, suggesting it stemmed from several players’ unavailability due to club commitments. Others echoed similar sentiments, expressing disappointment over the absence of players like Esther Onyenezide, Sebastian Flourish, and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The discussion highlighted not just the exclusion of Oshoala and Abiodun, but also the lack of depth in the squad, stirring disappointment among fans who had anticipated a stronger lineup.
The debate intensified with fans questioning the absence of key players. Ayo Dawson directly asked about Oshoala, a prominent striker known for her contributions to the team. Other fans, including Adejoke (@Jhokzy) and JE (@Jval222), also expressed their confusion about the notable omissions, particularly that of Abiodun and Rasheedat Ajibade, further amplifying doubts regarding the squad’s competitiveness. His Majesty (@TalmudicSage) raised similar concerns, listing multiple absentees and challenging the composition of the squad, which many believe lacks key talent essential for success against top-tier international opponents.
While some fans attempted to remain understanding, voicing their concerns over potential unavailability, they recognized the necessity of the match against France as part of the Super Falcons’ preparations for next year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The upcoming friendly is seen as a critical opportunity for Coach Justin Madugu to strategically assess and rebuild the squad in advance of the tournament, where Nigeria will compete in a group that includes Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana.
The impending match, scheduled for 9:30 PM France time at Stade Raymond Kopa in Angers, poses a significant challenge for the Super Falcons as they prepare to face an accomplished French team, currently ranked 10th globally. The absence of key players like captain Ajibade, who is sidelined due to injury, alongside the missing Oshoala and Abiodun, heightens the scrutiny and expectations on the remaining squad members to perform effectively against one of Europe’s elite teams.
Ultimately, as football enthusiasts continue to express their concerns about the squad composition, Coach Madugu hopes that the players chosen can rise to the occasion and deliver a commendable performance. The persistent questioning from fans about the absence of popular players serves as a reminder of the high expectations set for the team as they strive for both immediate results and future success in international competitions. The forthcoming friendly against France is not only a test of skill but also a measure of the team’s resilience and depth amid growing uncertainties surrounding player availability.
