The Super Falcons of Nigeria, nine time African champions, have arrived in Angers, France, ahead of their international friendly against Les Bleues on Saturday. This marks the second ever friendly meeting between the two sides, the first being in April 2018 when the Falcons suffered an 8-0 defeat in Le Mans.
Only two players, Chiamaka Nnadozie and Osinachi Ohale, remain from the squad that played in 2018. This encounter is part of the Ibrahim Musa Gusau led administration’s efforts to rebuild and provide exposure to a new generation of Super Falcons players following their underwhelming Olympic campaign earlier this year.
The match comes shortly after back-to-back friendly victories over Algeria 2-0 and 4-1 and eight days after the Falcons were drawn alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana in the group stage of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The game is scheduled for 9:30 pm local time, identical to Nigeria’s time.
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The current squad includes a mix of experienced players like Toni Payne and Ashleigh Plumptre and young talents like Blessing Nkor and Shukurat Oladipo, emphasizing the team’s transitional phase.
Editorial
The Super Falcons’ trip to France for this friendly against Les Bleues is a pivotal moment for the team. Beyond the competition, it offers an opportunity to test the squad’s mettle against one of the strongest women’s football teams in the world. The outcome, though important, will likely be secondary to the lessons learned and the confidence gained.
The friendly highlights the Super Falcons‘ ongoing transformation, with the inclusion of fresh talents alongside seasoned players. This blend signifies Nigeria’s intent to balance experience with youth, ensuring continuity while building for the future.
However, Nigeria must approach this game with tactical discipline. The crushing defeat in 2018 serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by world class opponents. Under Gusau’s leadership, there is hope that the team can rise to the occasion, showcasing their progress and potential.
This match could also set the tone for their preparation ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations next summer. A strong performance, irrespective of the result, would send a clear message about the Super Falcons’ ambition to reclaim dominance in Africa and compete globally.
Did You Know?
- The Super Falcons’ first encounter with Les Bleues in 2018 resulted in an 8-0 defeat, equalling their worst ever losses.
- Chiamaka Nnadozie, one of the goalkeepers for the friendly, plays professionally in France for Paris FC.
- Les Bleues are ranked among the top teams in women’s football, regularly competing in the latter stages of international tournaments.
- The Super Falcons have historically performed better against France in World Cup games, losing narrowly by one goal in both 2011 and 2019.
- This friendly match is part of a broader strategy to integrate new players into the Super Falcons as the team rebuilds for future competitions.
