Nigeriaโs Super Falcons have kickstarted their 2024 Olympics preparations with a residential camp in Seville, Spain.
The Super Falcons are set to participate in the Olympics for the first time since the 2008 Beijing Games, having secured their spot by eliminating South Africa in the final leg of qualifiers. Their Olympic qualification has spurred a flurry of betting offers, reflecting both optimism about their prospects and sparking debates on their potential tournament impact.
Head coach Randy Waldrum named his squad last week but will have to do without reliable defender Ashleigh Plumptre and midfielder Halimatu Ayinde, both of whom are sidelined due to injury.
Despite these absences, the team is determined to make a strong impression at the games.
The team held their first official training session on Sunday with about nine players in attendance. Gift Monday and Chidinma Okeke joined the squad shortly after the initial session.
Jennifer Echegini, who is rumored to be moving to Paris Saint-Germain this summer, also linked up with the team.
Additional players are expected to arrive on Monday and Tuesday.
Among those already in camp as of Sunday night are goalkeepers Chiamaka Nnadozie and Tochukwu Oluehi. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade made the short trip to camp from her base in Madrid.
Other players present include Christy Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo, and Morufat Ademola of Rivers Angels.
More Super Falcons expected Monday, Tuesday
Africa Womenโs Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala, along with Uchenna Kanu, Chiwendu Ihezuo, Chinonyerem Macleans, Tosin Demehin, and Ifeoma Onumonu, are expected to join the team on Monday, according to team officials.
The Super Falcons will play an international friendly against Canada on July 17 as part of their preparations for the opening 2024 Olympics group game against Brazil.
The last encounter between the two teams was during the group stage of the FIFA Women's World Cup last year, which ended in an exciting goalless draw.
Nigeria are placed in Group C of the Womenโs football event, alongside Brazil, Spain, and Japan.
Following their meeting with Brazil on July 25 at the Stade de Bordeaux, the Super Falcons will then face Spain on July 28 at the Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes.
The group stage will conclude with a match against Asian powerhouse Japan on July 31 at the same venue in Nantes.
