Nigeria head coach Randy Waldrum has unveiled his 18-woman squad for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, a group he hopes can challenge for a historic medal.
The Super Falcons return to the Olympic stage for the first time since 2008, and Waldrum has selected a blend of experience and youth to navigate a difficult Group C.
The squad is headlined by established stars like captain Rasheedat Ajibade, star goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, rock-solid defender Osinachi Ohale, and Nigeria's most decorated footballer, Asisat Oshoala.
Waldrum has also named three alternates: Gift Monday, Opeyemi Ajakaye, and Cynthia Aku. These players will provide valuable cover and ensure the Super Falcons remain competitive throughout the tournament if needed.
Tough 2024 Olympics awaits Super Falcons, but there is hope
Nigeria faces a significant challenge in Group C, drawn alongside powerhouses Brazil, Spain, and Japan.
Both Japan and Spain have lifted the FIFA Women's World Cup trophy, and Brazil, despite never winning the World Cup, remains a force to be reckoned with. However, the Super Falcons should not be underestimated.
At the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, the Super Falcons displayed their resilience under Waldrum's guidance.
They exited the competition undefeated in regulation time, only falling short in the round of 16 on penalties against eventual finalists, England. This fighting spirit and a hint of unfinished business will undoubtedly fuel their desire to excel in Paris.
Super Falcons full squad
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC); Tochukwu Oluehi (Shualat Alsharqia FC, Saudi Arabia)
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Oluwatosin Demehin (Stade de Reims, France); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Nicole Payne (Portland Thorns FC, USA); Chidinma Okeke (Mynavi Sendai Ladies, Japan)
Midfielders: Deborah Abiodun (University of Pittsburgh, USA); Halimatu Ayinde (FC Rosengard, Sweden); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Jennifer Echegini (Juventus Ladies, Italy); Toni Payne (Unattached)
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid FC, Spain); Esther Okoronkwo (Changchun FC, China); Asisat Oshoala (Bay FC, USA); Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville, USA); Chiwendu Ihezuo (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Chinonyerem Macleans (Locomotiv Moscow, Russia)
Alternate Players: Jumoke Alani (Nasarawa Amazons); Ifeoma Onumonu (Utah Royals, USA); Gift Monday (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa, Spain); Morufa Ademola (Rivers Angels)
