Super Falcons interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has played down concerns over the absence of three influential players ahead of Nigeria’s 2028 Olympic qualifying tie against Comoros, insisting that their replacements have the quality to deliver positive results.
As the Nigerian side prepares for Friday’s first-leg encounter in Ikenne, Eguavoen expressed confidence in his available squad, backing the players to handle the challenge across both legs.
“It is true that we have a number of withdrawals, notably Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin. However, I have confidence in their replacements as these ones 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.”
Nigeria initially began preparations with 14 players before captain Rasheedat Ajibade and six other squad members joined the camp, taking the number of available players to 21.
Ajibade arrived alongside Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini, Folashade Ijamilusi and Janet Akekoromowei as preparations continued at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo.
Goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie and Comfort Erhabor, together with forwards Gift Monday, Joy Omewa and Uchenna Kanu, were also expected to join the squad as Nigeria intensified preparations for the opening fixture.
The Super Falcons received a bye into the second round of the African qualifying series, while Comoros advanced after recording a remarkable 30-0 aggregate victory over Sudan.
Nigeria will host Comoros in the first leg on Friday, October 9, before the return fixture on Tuesday, October 13. Both matches will be played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne because Comoros do not have a CAF-approved venue for international fixtures.
The qualification campaign presents Nigeria with another opportunity to return to the Olympic women’s football tournament after competing at Paris 2024, which ended a 16-year absence from the Games.
The Falcons will be eager to secure another Olympic appearance in Los Angeles in 2028 following a disappointing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign and their failure to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.