Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has stressed the importance of ensuring a winning start to Nigeria’s Olympic qualification campaign as the African champions prepare to face Comoros in the first leg at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
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In the pre-match press conference, Ajibade expressed his satisfaction with the team’s preparation, highlighting the quality of the training and the growing understanding between the players as they prepare for the crucial match, reported Sports247.
“Even so, the quality of the training techniques has been incredible and little by little we are getting to know each other well,” said the captain.
The Nigerian team has been working with interim head coach Austin Eguavoen and his technical team ahead of the match against Comoros, with the team aiming to take advantage of home field advantage.
Ajibade also addressed the impact of injuries on the team, describing the situation as an opportunity for other players to step up and contribute to the team’s goals.
“This is football, injuries come and it is an opportunity for other players to get involved,” he noted.
The captain’s comments reflect the need for collective responsibility as Nigeria navigates the qualification campaign, where team depth and cohesion could prove important.
Ajibade highlights the importance of a winning start
With a place in the next round at stake, Ajibade stressed the importance of starting the campaign positively, while acknowledging the challenges associated with Olympic qualification.
“It is important that we start well with a victory. In truth, qualifying is closer than the World Cup qualifying round, but we will go step by step,” he stated.
The Super Falcons are seeking another appearance at the Olympic Games after representing Nigeria at Paris 2024. However, their immediate goal remains to overcome the Comoros and put themselves in a strong position heading into the second leg.
As captain, Ajibade is expected to provide leadership both on and off the pitch as the team looks to translate its preparations into a positive outcome.
The first leg in Ikenne offers Nigeria the opportunity to establish a lead in the tie, but the Falcons will need to remain focused throughout the match.
With preparations complete and the players becoming more familiar with each other, Ajibade and his teammates will now look to deliver a performance that reflects their ambitions and takes them one step closer to the next stage of Olympic qualification.
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