The Super Falcons confirmed lineup for the 2024 CAF Women Olympic Games Qualifiers is out, and coach Randy Waldrum has made two major changes to his starting XI.
Asisat Oshoala has been dropped to the bench after starting in the first leg played in Douala, with Esther Okoronkwo getting the nod.
Also, Halimatu Ayinde would be starting this one from the bench, with Jennifer Echegini preferred to start in Abuja.
Super Falcons confirmed lineup
Waldrum is sticking to his 4-3-3 formation, with Chiamaka Nnadozie keeping her place between the sticks.
The FC Paris goalkeeper will look to keep another clean sheet after making two great saves in the first leg. The reigning Africa Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year will be looking forward to helping her team advance to the next round.
Esther Okoronkwo, who had her goals chalked off controversially in the first leg, will lead the attack, alongside Toni Payne and captain Rasheedat Ajibade from the flanks.
The captain of the side scored two of the five goals that saw off Ethiopia in the previous round of qualifiers, and the Atletico Madrid midfielder will hope to attack more today in Abuja as against her deep role in Douala during the first leg.
Wingbacks Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre will be looking to help in the attack when the team drives upfront from the defence.
Alozie, the Houston dash player, did not have the best of games in the first leg but will be hoping for an improved performance, while the Saudi-based Ashleigh is returning to the team in this window for the first time since the World Cup last summer is expected to continue in the role on Monday.
Defenders Tosin Demehin and experienced Osinahchi Ohale complete the backline while Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun will be looking to have a brilliant outing in the midfield.
Super Falcons hope to soar in Abuja
With a lot at stake on Monday, a win on Monday for the Super Falcons will potentially set up a grudge encounter against African champions South Africa in the final round of qualifiers.
Only two teams will represent the continent in the Women's football arm of the Summer Olympics games in Paris, France.
Here's the Super Falcons confirmed lineup for Nigeria vs Cameroon.
- Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie
- Defenders: Ashleigh Plumptre, Oluwatosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie
- Midfielders: Jennifer Echegini, Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun
- Forwards: Raheedat Ajibade (C), Esther Okoronkwo, Toni Payne.
Nigeria vs Ivory Coast kicks off at 4 pm WAT inside the M.K.O National Stadium in Abuja.
The Super Falcons are eyeing a first Olympics appearance since they last featured in Beijing 2008.
