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2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Round of 16: Predicting Nigeria’s XI against England
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
As the Nigeria senior women’s national team prepare to face European champions, England in the Round of 16 clash in Brisbane, on Monday, nigeriafootball.ng forecasts Randy Waldrum’s selection for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup knockout stage.
Waldrum is expected to put his trust in the side that helped the team qualify from what he tagged the “group of death” with Canada, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.
Goalkeeper – Chiamaka Nnadozie
The Paris FC goalie is expected to start her third match as the team’s top choice after keeping two clean sheets from three group games including a penalty save against Canada in the opening group game.
Defender – Osinachi Ohale
As the most experienced defender in the team, taking the role of Onome Ebi, Ohale is expected to lead the defensive department after scoring one of the deciding goals against Australia during a 3-2 win.
Defender – Tosin Demehin
After his impressive transition from the U-20 side to the senior women’s national team and putting up a wonderful shift at the backline, Demehin is also expected to keep her place in the starting lineup. She has played all three group games for the team.
Defender – Ashleigh Plumptre
Leicester City FC defender who also started all three group games is also in a good position to retain her spot in the defensive department.
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – JULY 16: Ashleigh Plumptre of Nigeria poses for a portrait during the official FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 portrait session on July 16, 2023 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Defender – Michelle Alozie
Another pivotal player in be squad, Alozie who has also played all three games with an impressive form against the Republic of Ireland will surely start this one against England.
Midfielder – Christy Ucheibe
Ucheibe, who excelled in 18 tackles in the group phase is another sure bet player to start the crucial match on Monday.
Midfielder – Halimatu Ayinde
Ayinde who returned to the team against Australia after two two-match suspensions can stake a claim to another staters shirt.
She has been impressive in her two group games against Australia and the Republic of Ireland.
Midfielder – Toni Payne
A creative force in the middle of the pack, Payne is also expected to be a starter for the nine-time African champions.
Forward – Rasheedat Ajibade
With an assist against Australia, no coach will think of benching the Atletico Madrid forward.
Her energy and threat up front are sure to give her a starting shirt.
Forward – Asisat Oshoala
Despite scoring her only goal of the tournament from the bench, Oshoala showed a glimpse of her deadly attacking threat against Ireland as should start this one.
Forward – Uchenna Kanu
Kanu who scored her first goal at the World Cup against Canada is also expected to start the game.
She had the best chance alongside Oshoala to score the winning goal against Ireland the last time out.
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