October 26, (THEWILL) – Ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup finals billed for Australia and New Zealand next year, Super Falcons’ coach, Randy Waldrum, believes Nigeria, the nine-time African champions, can compete favourably if they follow their current pattern of frequent top-level friendlies and camping schedules.
Speaking after the draw that placed Nigeria in Group B alongside Australia, Canada and New Zealand, Waldrum said: “I have mixed feelings because it is a difficult group. Host nations are almost always difficult to play, and more than that, Australia is a fantastic team. Also, we have the Olympic champions, Canada, in our group.
“We played the Canadians recently in two friendly matches and I know they are highly motivated for the World Cup. I know some of Canada’s players very well. Then, we have the Republic of Ireland. It is a tough group, but I think it is the same with most of the groups. It is the FIFA World Cup, so, you are bound to play the strongest teams.
“All the groups are difficult and you know, there are so many good teams these days: that is where we are and it is a great thing for the women’s game.”
At the global football showpiece, which will take place in nine cities throughout Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20 next year, the American coach is adamant that the Super Falcons have the talents, grit and passion to create a stir at the finals and make the nation proud.
“We have, no doubt, the talent to survive in this group. We just need adequate preparations such as regular friendly matches during international breaks, and then the training camps. The girls are ambitious; they want to give their best at the World Cup. I trust that they will do Nigeria proud.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
