Nigeria head coach Randy Waldrum has announced a formidable lineup for the Super Falcons vs Brazil 2024 Olympics opener. Waldrum hopes his team will maintain their impressive record, having remained undefeated in their last eight competitive matches.
Historically, Nigeria's performance at the Olympic Games has been lacklustre, with the Super Falcons securing just one victory in their previous nine appearances and suffering defeats in the remaining eight.
Brazil and Nigeria previously faced off at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where Brazil triumphed with a 3-1 victory. In that Group F encounter, Perpetual Nkwocha gave Nigeria an early lead with a penalty in the 19th minute, but Cristiane's hat-trick for the South Americans ultimately secured the win.
Following their defeat, Brazil went on to top the group, while the Super Falcons exited the competition without a win, having also suffered losses to Germany and North Korea.
Ihezuo leads the line for Super Falcons vs Brazil
Waldrum has decided to stick with the 4-3-3 formation that has proven effective in recent outings. Once again, there is no place for the six-time African Women's Footballer of the Year, Asisat Oshoala as Waldrum has opted to start Veronica Ihezuo in her stead.
Chiamaka Nnadozie will remain in goal, shielded by a four-woman defence comprising Chidinma Okeke, Blessing Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, and Michelle Alozie.
In midfield, Toni Payne, who steps into the starting lineup due to the absence of regular starter Halimatu Ayinde, who missed the tournament due to injury will be complemented by by Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe.
Veronica Ihezuo will lead the attack for the 11-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions and will lead the attack and will be flanked by new Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) signing Jennifer Echegini and Rasheedat Ajibade.
Waldrum’s confirmed Super Falcons vs Brazil lineup
Formation (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie
Defenders: Chidinma Okeke, Blessing Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie
Midfielders: Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne, Christy Ucheibe
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade, Veronica Ihezuo and Jennifer Echegini
Substitutes
Tochuwku Oluehi(GK)
Esther Okoronkwo
Asisat Oshoala
Nicole Payne
Chinonyere Macleans
Grace Uchenna Kanu
Ifeoma Onumonu
