Randy Waldrum has made a couple of changes to the Super Falcons starting XI ahead of their final group game against Japan.
Granadilla Tenerife's Esther Okoronkwo was dropped, and replaced by Paris Saint-Germain's Jennifer Echegini. Although Echegini started in Nigeria's 1-0 loss to Brazil, she did not participate in their second group game against Spain.
Reigning African Women's Footballer of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, was named in the starting XI for the second consecutive match. The Bay FC forward will lead the charge for the Super Falcons.
As expected, Chiamaka Nnadozie retains her place in the starting XI after her stellar performance against Spain last weekend. Additionally, Waldrum did not make any changes to the defensive line, which is no surprise considering they held their own against the world Champions.
After losing their first two group matches, Waldrum’s troops will need to defeat Japan by at least a two-goal margin for a chance to reach the knockout stages of the 2024 Paris Olympics. This is easier said than done, considering that the Falcons have failed to score in their last four matches.
Super Falcons confirmed XI vs Japan
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Here is the confirmed XI for the Super Falcons vs Japan clash.
Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Blessing Demehin, Chidinma Okeke, Michelle Alozie.
Midfielders: Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini, Deborah Abiodun, Rasheedat Ajibade, Toni Payne.
Forwards: Asisat Oshoala.
Substitutes
Tochukwu Oluehi
Nicole Payne
Uchenna Kanu
Macleans Chinonyerem
Esther Okoronkwo
Chinwendu Ihezuo
Ifeoma Onumonu
