The Nigerian women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, a dominant force in African football with nine continental titles, are set to arrive in Casablanca, Morocco, on Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, to participate in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This tournament, scheduled to run from July 5th to 26th, 2023, will see the Super Falcons vying for their tenth continental crown, further solidifying their position as the most successful team in the history of the competition. An advance party of seven players, including prominent US-based players Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, and Deborah Abiodun, arrived in Casablanca on Tuesday, joining other early arrivals Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, and newcomer Chioma Okafor. The remaining members of the squad, who recently played a friendly match against Portugal, will join the team in Casablanca on Wednesday.
The Super Falcons, known for their attacking prowess and resilient spirit, recently showcased their competitive edge in a friendly match against Portugal. Despite ending in a goalless draw, the match provided valuable experience and insights ahead of the crucial WAFCON tournament. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year, demonstrated her exceptional skills with a series of remarkable saves that prevented Portugal from gaining the upper hand. While the Nigerian team pressed forward in search of victory, their closest attempt came towards the end of the match when Francisca Ordega’s powerful shot struck the crossbar, narrowly missing the target. This match served as a crucial warm-up, allowing the team to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum for the upcoming challenges.
As the Super Falcons prepare for their WAFCON campaign, they have scheduled another friendly match against their long-standing rivals, Ghana’s Black Queens, on Sunday, June 29th. This encounter will provide an important opportunity to assess the team’s readiness and make any necessary adjustments before their opening match against Tunisia. The Black Queens, who have also arrived in Morocco for their pre-tournament training camp, will present a formidable challenge for the Super Falcons. This match offers valuable insights into the team’s dynamics against a familiar opponent and will be instrumental in finalizing preparations for the tournament.
The Super Falcons have been drawn into Group B alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. All their group stage matches will be played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, a familiar ground for the Nigerian team. Their first match against Tunisia is scheduled for Sunday, July 6th, marking the start of their quest for a tenth WAFCON title. The team understands the weight of expectations and the importance of starting their campaign on a positive note. The remaining group stage matches against Botswana and Algeria will offer further opportunities to secure their place in the knockout stages and continue their pursuit of the championship.
Historically, the Super Falcons have dominated the WAFCON, winning nine out of the twelve tournaments held since its inception in 1998. Their consistent success has established them as the most decorated women’s national team in Africa, a testament to their talent, dedication, and unwavering spirit. This year’s tournament presents a new challenge, with several other strong contenders vying for the coveted title. However, the Super Falcons remain determined to add another trophy to their impressive collection and maintain their legacy as the undisputed queens of African football.
Their arrival in Casablanca marks the beginning of an exciting journey, filled with high expectations and the unwavering support of Nigerian fans worldwide. The Super Falcons are prepared to showcase their skills, determination, and unwavering commitment to victory on the African stage. They carry the hopes of a nation as they embark on this quest for glory, aiming not just to win but to inspire future generations of female footballers in Nigeria and across the continent. The stage is set, and the countdown has begun. The Super Falcons are ready to soar.
