Falcons to watch out for in Australia
As the Super Falcons prepare for their FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 opener against Canada on July 21, several players will be instrumental in their campaign in Australia/New Zealand. PETER AKINBO takes a look at some of the brightest sparks in coach Randy Waldrum's squad
Asisat Oshoala
The player to watch on the Nigerian side is undoubtedly Oshoala. Currently one of the best strikers in women's football, Oshoala has been shortlisted for the 2023 FIFA Ballon d'Or (Socrates award). His incredible record of 83 goals in 89 games for the Barcelona club speaks volumes about his talent. In the 2022-23 season, she outplayed many top players in Europe, scoring 21 goals without penalty, and found the net in half of her league appearances for Barca.
>Oshoala is aiming to become the first African player to score in three different Women's World Cup tournaments, having already scored in the 2015 and 2019 editions. leader, Oshoala is considered one of the greatest African footballers of all time.
"Personally, I feel like we have a good team and if everything is done right, we can go very far in the next World Cup," Oshoala said.
"It's because no matter what, we will always fight, do our job and see what we can achieve."
Ashleigh Plumptre
Leicester City women's centre-back Plumptre is gaining recognition in the English Women's Super League thanks to her strong performances week after week. Helping her club retain their top-flight status last season, the 25-year-old defender brings a pragmatic and energetic style of play to the Nigerian side. With 11 caps already to her name, she will be a key player for Nigeria's exploits in the tournament.
The 'Dancing Oyinbo' has a composed and calm demeanor, which has earned her a place in the team, and she enjoys the experience gained during the difficult WAFCON 2022 campaign, from where the Falcons qualified for their ninth World Cup.
Rasheed in Ajibade
Known for her skills as an attacking midfielder or deep forward, Ajibade captivates fans with her dazzling footwork and ability to navigate difficult situations on the pitch. Her unique skills allow her to show flair, creativity and defensive contributions, making her one of the most complete players in Africa.
The Atletico Madrid playmaker can win tackles, make interceptions and orchestrate attacks. Coupled with her unpredictability and versatility, 'the blue-haired girl' is a player Australian opponents will be wary of.
Michelle Alozie
Alozie is ranked among the most beautiful footballers in the Women's World Cup. After making her senior national team debut in 2021, the 26-year-old has become a regular member of the squad.
Alozie's versatility allows her to easily fit into various positions, and she played a more influential role in the 2023 campaign for Houston Dash in the National Women's Soccer League in America. His performances as a winger and his ability to score crucial goals underline his importance in the team.
Uchenna Kanu
Uchenna Kanu's versatility is a valuable asset for Nigeria as she can play in different positions on the front line. She showed off her goalscoring prowess, especially with her impressive run and well-placed shot against USA in a friendly match.
Kanu's improved decision-making and movement, acquired through her experience in the Swedish, Mexican and American leagues, make her a consistent shooter. Coach Waldrum faces a dilemma: release her early on or play her as an impact player in the second half.
Chiamaka Nnadozie
To make a good team, the team must be good in all departments. That's why Chimaka has a crucial role to play if the Falcons hope to face the biggest women's teams in the world.
The Paris FC goalkeeper is widely regarded as the best on the continent. His contributions were essential in helping his club reach the Champions League qualifiers in the French Women's Division 1.
Notably, Nnadozie made history at the age of 19 when she became the youngest player to keep a clean sheet at the World Cup, in Nigeria's 2-0 win over Korea in 2019. Her exceptional skills and experience as a goalkeeper will be crucial to Nigeria's success in the upcoming tournament.
As the Super Falcons prepare for their FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 opener against Canada on July 21, several players will be instrumental in their campaign in Australia/New Zealand. PETER AKINBO takes a look at some of the brightest sparks in coach Randy Waldrum's squad
Asisat Oshoala
The player to watch on the Nigerian side is undoubtedly Oshoala. Currently one of the best strikers in women's football, Oshoala has been shortlisted for the 2023 FIFA Ballon d'Or (Socrates award). His incredible record of 83 goals in 89 games for the Barcelona club speaks volumes about his talent. In the 2022-23 season, she outplayed many top players in Europe, scoring 21 goals without penalty, and found the net in half of her league appearances for Barca.
>Oshoala is aiming to become the first African player to score in three different Women's World Cup tournaments, having already scored in the 2015 and 2019 editions. leader, Oshoala is considered one of the greatest African footballers of all time.
"Personally, I feel like we have a good team and if everything is done right, we can go very far in the next World Cup," Oshoala said.
"It's because no matter what, we will always fight, do our job and see what we can achieve."
Ashleigh Plumptre
Leicester City women's centre-back Plumptre is gaining recognition in the English Women's Super League thanks to her strong performances week after week. Helping her club retain their top-flight status last season, the 25-year-old defender brings a pragmatic and energetic style of play to the Nigerian side. With 11 caps already to her name, she will be a key player for Nigeria's exploits in the tournament.
The 'Dancing Oyinbo' has a composed and calm demeanor, which has earned her a place in the team, and she enjoys the experience gained during the difficult WAFCON 2022 campaign, from where the Falcons qualified for their ninth World Cup.
Rasheed in Ajibade
Known for her skills as an attacking midfielder or deep forward, Ajibade captivates fans with her dazzling footwork and ability to navigate difficult situations on the pitch. Her unique skills allow her to show flair, creativity and defensive contributions, making her one of the most complete players in Africa.
The Atletico Madrid playmaker can win tackles, make interceptions and orchestrate attacks. Coupled with her unpredictability and versatility, 'the blue-haired girl' is a player Australian opponents will be wary of.
Michelle Alozie
Alozie is ranked among the most beautiful footballers in the Women's World Cup. After making her senior national team debut in 2021, the 26-year-old has become a regular member of the squad.
Alozie's versatility allows her to easily fit into various positions, and she played a more influential role in the 2023 campaign for Houston Dash in the National Women's Soccer League in America. His performances as a winger and his ability to score crucial goals underline his importance in the team.
Uchenna Kanu
Uchenna Kanu's versatility is a valuable asset for Nigeria as she can play in different positions on the front line. She showed off her goalscoring prowess, especially with her impressive run and well-placed shot against USA in a friendly match.
Kanu's improved decision-making and movement, acquired through her experience in the Swedish, Mexican and American leagues, make her a consistent shooter. Coach Waldrum faces a dilemma: release her early on or play her as an impact player in the second half.
Chiamaka Nnadozie
To make a good team, the team must be good in all departments. That's why Chimaka has a crucial role to play if the Falcons hope to face the biggest women's teams in the world.
The Paris FC goalkeeper is widely regarded as the best on the continent. His contributions were essential in helping his club reach the Champions League qualifiers in the French Women's Division 1.
Notably, Nnadozie made history at the age of 19 when she became the youngest player to keep a clean sheet at the World Cup, in Nigeria's 2-0 win over Korea in 2019. Her exceptional skills and experience as a goalkeeper will be crucial to Nigeria's success in the upcoming tournament.
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