Super Falcons Face Comoros: Eguavoen Speaks On Late Withdrawals, Reveals Nigeria’s Plan

Super Falcons interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed confidence that Nigeria can overcome Comoros in their 2028 Olympic qualifying fixture despite several late withdrawals from his original squad.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Nigeria will face Comoros in the first leg on October 9, with the return fixture scheduled for October 13. Both matches will be played at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo after Comoros failed to provide a standard football pitch for the encounter.

Eguavoen confirmed that key players Asisat Oshoala, Ashley Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin withdrew from the squad ahead of the crucial fixtures.

Despite the setbacks, the coach said he remained confident in the players brought in as replacements, insisting that they possess the quality and experience required to help Nigeria secure a positive result.

“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,” Eguavoen said.

The interim coach also disclosed that the team had settled well in camp and was focused on preparing for the two encounters.

He noted that Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe was the only late invitee yet to arrive in camp in Ijebu-Ode at the time of his comments.

“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,” he said.

The Super Falcons must secure victory on aggregate across the two legs to progress to the third round of the five-round African Olympic qualifying series, which is scheduled for March 2027.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the Nigerian side as they attempt to secure another appearance at the Olympic Games following their participation at the Paris 2024 tournament.

With both fixtures taking place on Nigerian soil, Eguavoen and his players will be expected to take advantage of the familiar conditions and establish a strong advantage before the qualifying battle continues.