Nine-time continental champions, the Super Falcons, are expected to arrive in Casablanca, Morocco’s capital, on Wednesday (today) to continue preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, taking place from July 5 to 26 across the North African country, According to PUNCH.
A group of seven players touched down on Tuesday, including U.S.-based stars Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, and Deborah Abiodun. Also arriving were Chinwendu Ihezuo, Folashade Ijamilusi, Esther Okoronkwo, and newly invited Chioma Okafor.
Coach Justin Madugu had access to 17 players for Monday’s goalless friendly against Portugal.
Chiamaka Nnadozie, the reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year, put on a brilliant display with several top-class saves to keep the match level. Nigeria’s closest moment to scoring came when Francisca Ordega unleashed a powerful strike that struck the crossbar in the final minutes.
The remaining players who featured in the Portugal game are scheduled to fly from Lisbon to Casablanca on Wednesday (today). There, they will face off against long-time adversaries, Ghana’s Black Queens, in another friendly on Sunday, June 29.
The Black Queens arrived in Benslimane, Morocco, last Tuesday and have been undergoing a two-week pre-tournament training programme.
With nine titles under their belt, the Super Falcons aim to claim their 10th WAFCON crown. Since the Confederation of African Football formalized the competition in 1998, Nigeria has emerged victorious in nine of 12 editions, making them the most successful women’s team on the continent.
The Falcons are placed in Group B and will play against Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. All group-stage matches are scheduled to take place at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
