Nigeria will be the talk of the world if they beat England – Racheal Ayegba

By Saheed Afolabi

Former Nigeria goalkeeper, Racheal Ayegba believes the Super Falcons reaching the quarterfinal of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the expense of England will dominate the media airwaves for a long time.

The West Africans are chasing another historic record against the English in the Round of 16 of the World Cup, with Super Falcons having the upper hand according to previous meetings against the European champions.

And the former Finish title winner is full of praise for the nine-time African champions for reaching the knockout stage as she emphasizes that sealing a quarter final stage will motivate the younger generation of the Super Falcons.

“But we always try to prove people wrong and, before the World Cup, a lot of Nigerians did not think the team would succeed,” Ayegba told BBC Sports.

“You could see in the talk online that they never believed, so I’m really pleased for the girls in the team. It will also allow the young girls in Nigeria to believe in what they can achieve, as well as bringing the publicity the women’s game needs.

“Hopefully that will help more players from Nigeria’s local leagues to have an opportunity to play in other countries such as in Europe.

“If the Super Falcons can beat England and reach the quarter-finals, it will mean everything. I’m sure the president will fly to Australia. In terms of TV and radio, it will knock all other news out. Everyone will be talking about them.”

The 52,500 Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane will host the round of 16 encounter between England and Nigeria.