‘It’s scary’ – Randy Waldrum admits Nigeria’s difficult task reaching knockout stages

The nine-time African champions are paired in Group B alongside Olympic champions Canada, co-hosts Australia, and the Republic of Ireland.

With a dismal display at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco last year, having ended up in fourth place, the American will be eager to avoid another disappointing outing at the global showpiece.

And the 66-year-old tactician opened up on the tough task ahead of his side in bid to progress from the group phase.

“It’s scary, to be honest. Our first two games are brutal,” Waldrum told FIFA media.

“Many people have our group ranked as the hardest in the World Cup. The other three teams are all ranked in the top 25 in the world. They all pose different kinds of problems.

“Just like Canada, Australia has so, so many stars. They have Sam Kerr leading the line and a host of really, really talented players behind her. And if that’s not going to be hard enough, they’re the host nation, so we’ve got a lot to overcome.

“It’s going to be a very, very big challenge for us. Obviously, as a coach, I look forward to these challenges and I think our players also will, but clearly, it will be very difficult for us. Look at Australia’s recent performances. They’re handling strong opposition pretty easily. Australia is flying right now and, in a World Cup at home, they’re sure to be flying.”

Nigeria will open the World Cup campaign with Canada on the 21st of July before taking on Australia six days later. The last group game versus the Republic of Ireland takes place on 31st July 2023.