Former Super Falcons international Gift Okunwa-Igunbor has thrown her weight behind the decision of the Super Falcons’ technical crew to recall midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene ahead of the upcoming double-header friendly matches against Cameroon.
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Speaking in reaction to mixed opinions surrounding Okobi’s return to the national team after a long absence, Okunwa-Igunbor insisted that the coaching crew deserves trust and patience, especially at a crucial stage of preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
“I believe the coaches know exactly what they are doing,” Okunwa-Igunbor said. “Ngozi Okobi is a quality player, and her ability has never been in doubt. Experience like hers can still be very valuable to the team.”
The former Falcons defender noted that international friendly matches are designed specifically to assess players and combinations, stressing that judgments should be reserved until performances are seen on the pitch.
“These games against Cameroon are friendlies meant for assessment,” she explained. “It is not the tournament proper yet, so this is the right time to test players, try new ideas and see who fits best.”
Okunwa-Igunbor also pointed out that Okobi’s recall could add balance and experience to the midfield department, particularly as Nigeria prepares to face stronger and more tactical opponents at WAFCON.
According to her, blending experience with emerging talents remains key to sustaining Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football on the continent.
“You need a mix of youth and experience to win tournaments,” she added. “Okobi has played at the highest level before and understands what it takes to compete under pressure.”
She further urged fans and observers to avoid rushing to conclusions based solely on squad lists, reminding them that final selections are usually shaped by performances in training and friendly matches.
“Let us watch how the team performs first,” Okunwa-Igunbor said. “Football decisions should be judged by what happens on the pitch, not assumptions.”
As the Super Falcons intensify preparations for their Cameroon double-header, Okunwa-Igunbor expressed confidence that the coaching crew will make the right calls in selecting a competitive squad capable of defending Nigeria’s continental crown.
“The Super Falcons have always been about winning,” she concluded. “With proper preparation and unity, this team can once again show why Nigeria remains the benchmark in African women’s football.”
