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Women’s World Cup: ‘Nigeria are capable of going all the way’ – Randy Waldrum
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Head coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s national team, Randy Waldrum believes the talent at his disposal can take his side beyond their Round of 16 tie with European champions, England at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The lowest-ranked team from Group B upset bookmakers with their surprising passage out of the group stage, finishing second with a 3-2 win over co-host, Australia plus a 0-0 draw with Canada and debutants, Ireland.
While speaking on the team’s chemistry, Waldrum is hopeful his side can escape the wrath of Sarina Wiegman’s side on Monday to progress to the next stage of the competition taking place in Australia and New Zealand.
“The first thing is the chemistry and the bond we have. You heard Asisat (Oshoala) speak after the Australia game, She said it’s not about whether she plays for 90 minutes or not, she’s going to give her best no matter how long she has on the field,” Waldrum told FIFA.
“She also very quickly complimented her teammates and the effort of the team. She gave them the credit even though she scored such a big goal for us. That’s the attitude all of our players have.”
Many people believe that Monday’s game would go England’s way, but Waldrum is not taking that. Asked about the reasons behind his team’s impressive tournament so far, Waldrum highlighted two key elements.
“The other thing that really impresses me is the fight this team has. It’s one thing to have talent and have a good team, but there’s something to be said about your heart and what’s inside you,” he added.
“That’s innate and it’s part of their DNA. Against Australia, it would have been easy to have folded after going a goal down late in the first half, yet we came back and got the equaliser before the break. This team’s resolve, competitiveness, and fight have been nothing short of amazing.”
The winner of the knockout stage encounter with England on Monday will face either the 2022 Copa America femenina finalist, Colombia or Jamaica in the quarter-final.
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