Paris 2024 Olympic: Five Nigerian players to shine against Cameroon

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria’s  Super Falcons will be guest to their arch rivals in African women’s football, Cameroon on Friday in the first leg, third round qualification match for the 2024 Olympics

The most celebrated women’s football nation in Africa are heading to the match on the back of their scintillating performances at the last FIFA Women’s World Cup where they reached the second round without losing a game in normal duration time.

As coach Randy Waldrum led side visit Douala for the encounter, here are five of his girls that could determine the positive outcome for Nigeria.

One of the most celebrated women goalkeeper globally, Nnadozie is expected to be in goal for Nigeria and as such bring her A-game to bear as the Falcons will need to avoid defeat to have better advantage in the second leg.

Paris FC safe hand can also be relied on with her spot kicks heroics which can come in handy in the course of the game.

Plumptre’s return to the Falcons will be a huge boost for the team’s defense with her experience and coordination at the back.

The Saudi based defender might be handed a centre back role or operate from left wing back which she delivered well in her last outing for the team. Plumptre can also be relied on with her set pieces at dangerous positions.

A trojan in midfield, Ucheibe will definitely have a huge impact in the match if she’s considered a starter due to her tenacity and marking abilities.

The SL Benfica midfielder will be the neutralizer of any plans by the Cameroonians in the midfield.

She can break a play and also have a vision of long passes that could come in handy for the attackers.

A leader in the middle of the pack, Ajibade has led the team perfectly in the absence of Onone Ebi and she’s expected to do same in Douala.

She’s a committed player who can support the attack, provide killer passes and as well give needed support for the defense if need be. The Atletico Madrid player might be a determining factor in Friday’s match.

Oshoala will be coming to the match as a new player for Bay FC and is expected to bring a new mentality to the team.

She looked refreshing after movement from Barcelona to the United States based side and should as always be a threat to the Lionesses’ defense.

The winner from both legs of this round will face eventual winners between South Africa and Tanzania for the final qualifying round.