Super Falcons veteran Francisca Ordega has emphatically denied reports suggesting she is being forced into the Nigerian squad for the upcoming 2024 Olympics.
The 30-year-old forward addressed the swirling rumors head-on, clarifying the situation and reiterating her commitment to representing her nation.
Ordega is a household name in Nigerian football. Since bursting onto the scene in 2010, she has become a mainstay for the Nigeria women's national team, amassing a wealth of experience across competitions. Her resume boasts four World Cup appearances (2011, 2015, 2019, 2023) and three Women's Africa Cup of Nations titles showcasing her value to the team.
However, with age comes questions of squad selection and generational transition. Some Nigerians believe the experienced forward should make way for younger players like Uchenna Kanu, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Gift Monday, who represent the future of the Super Falcons.
Further fueling this debate is Francisca Ordega's recent dip in form at club level with CSKA Moscow.
Francisca Ordega inclusion rumors spark Super Falcons controversy
As the 2024 Olympic Games approach, rumours emerged suggesting the Nigeria Football Federation was pressuring head coach Randy Waldrum to include Ordega in the final squad.
Determined to address these claims directly, Ordega reached out to Waldrum on Sunday. “I was surprised by the news and had to call the coach to verify the report,” she revealed in an interview with NigeriaFootball.ng.
Her conversation with Waldrum appears to have cleared the air. “I respect him a lot and felt slighted by such allegations in the media,” Ordega continued. “He said he was not aware of that and never had such talks with anyone. He also said the media were just trying to be mischievous as he never spoke to anyone about it.”
Seeking complete clarity, Ordega challenged Waldrum's stance. “I even asked if he really did not want me on his team, he should just say it, so I can focus on my club career. It is very embarrassing to hear I am being imposed on a coach after all the sacrifices and hard work to make the country proud.”
Waldrum has yet to unveil his final 2024 Olympics squad, and Ordega's inclusion remains a possibility. Her vast experience on the international stage cannot be ignored, and she could prove invaluable during the Olympic Games.
