Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has stressed the importance of securing a winning start to Nigeria’s Olympic qualifying campaign as the African champions prepare to face Comoros in the first leg at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
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Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ajibade expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparations, highlighting the quality of the training sessions and the growing understanding among players as they prepare for the crucial encounter, Sports247 gathered.
“Still, it has been an amazing one with the quality of training techniques, and we are gradually getting to know ourselves well,” the captain said.
The Nigerian squad has been working under interim head coach Austin Eguavoen and his technical crew ahead of the meeting with Comoros, with the team aiming to make home advantage count.
Ajibade also addressed the impact of injuries on the squad, describing the situation as an opportunity for other players to step up and contribute to the team’s objectives.
“This is football; injuries come, and it is an opportunity for other players to get involved,” she noted.
The captain’s comments reflect the need for collective responsibility as Nigeria navigates the qualification campaign, where squad depth and team cohesion could prove important.
Ajibade Emphasises Importance of Winning Start
With a place in the next round at stake, Ajibade underlined the importance of beginning the campaign positively, while acknowledging the challenges associated with Olympic qualification.
“It is important we start well with a win. Truly, the qualification is tighter than the World Cup qualifier, but we will take it one step at a time,” she said.
The Super Falcons are seeking another appearance at the Olympic Games after representing Nigeria at Paris 2024. Their immediate focus, however, remains on overcoming Comoros and putting themselves in a strong position ahead of the return leg.
As captain, Ajibade will be expected to provide leadership both on and off the pitch as the team looks to translate its preparations into a positive result.
The first-leg encounter in Ikenne offers Nigeria an opportunity to establish an advantage in the tie, but the Falcons will need to remain focused throughout the contest.
With preparations complete and the players increasingly familiar with one another, Ajibade and her teammates will now look to deliver a performance that reflects their ambitions and takes them a step closer to the next stage of Olympic qualification.
