Super Falcons vs Comoros: 3 Nigerian stars who must step up before Morocco test

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will look to complete their job against Comoros on Tuesday in the second leg of their 2028 Olympic qualifying tie.

Nigeria claimed a 2-0 win in the first leg, giving interim coach Augustine Eguavoen a positive start to his spell in charge. Another favourable result would seal the Super Falcons’ aggregate victory and book their place in the third round, where Morocco await.

However, Nigeria will need more attacking quality and sharper finishing to make a statement ahead of a potentially difficult encounter with the Atlas Lionesses.

Three players, in particular, have plenty to prove. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Toni Payne and Gift Monday must deliver improved performances if the former WAFCON queens are to secure a convincing victory

Super Falcons stars to watch vs Comoros

Rasheedat Ajibade

Ajibade was a shadow of her usual self in the first leg, an unexpected dip considering her impressive form for Paris Saint-Germain before the international break.

The Super Falcons captain is one of Nigeria’s most influential players, capable of creating chances, driving attacks and producing decisive moments in the final third.

Nigeria need her leadership and attacking quality to be more evident on Tuesday. If Ajibade rediscovers her best form, the Super Falcons could make life considerably more difficult for the Comoros defence.

Toni Payne

Payne is another player who must raise her game after an underwhelming first-leg display.

Expected to provide creativity and connect Nigeria’s midfield with the attack, the Inter Milan playmaker struggled to make her presence felt. She missed promising opportunities and failed to consistently find her teammates with the forward passes needed to unlock Comoros.

A more composed and incisive performance would give Nigeria another dimension in attack and create better opportunities for the forwards.

Gift Monday

Monday endured a difficult outing in the first leg, failing to make the most of her opportunities in front of goal.

While Uchenna Kanu worked tirelessly in and around the penalty area, Monday struggled to influence proceedings and looked short of ideas when possession reached her.

The forward has potential, but she needs to translate it into consistent performances for Nigeria. If Eguavoen gives her another opportunity on Tuesday against Comoros, she must take it.

The Super Falcons need a reliable source of goals as they look to build for the long-term, with Asisat Oshoala’s potential departure from the national-team set in the near future.

Blessing Nkor and Joy Omewa are among the players who could challenge for attacking opportunities, making Monday’s response particularly important.

A convincing Nigerian victory and improved performances from Ajibade, Payne and Monday could give the Super Falcons greater confidence before the Morocco test.