Super Falcons defender, Ashleigh Plumptre, has said she’s satisfied with Nigeria’s resounding display on the team’s ability to adapt to different opponents while proving doubters wrong at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
Plumptre made these remarks in the wake of Nigeria’s 5-0 demolition of the Copper Queens of Zambia, a victory that re-established the Super Falcons as top contenders for the continental title.
The victory followed two more tactical showings in the group stage and quarterfinals, with Nigeria yet to concede a single goal.
“I think we have to remember as well, like the teams that we played before this game, they respected us by playing in a low block.”
Speaking on the difference between past opponents and Zambia, Plumptre explained that the Copper Queens’ more attacking approach opened up opportunities for Nigeria’s creative talent to flourish.
“You know, so that’s obviously a lot harder to be able to get the goals. Zambia weren’t, obviously they were a bit more offensive, so it allowed us to get those spaces in behind and be a little bit more creative.”
“So I always enjoy any game that I play with this team to be honest, but I think because there was so much going into Zambia game and in a way I think some people looked at us and thought that we would struggle against this team.”
Ashleigh Plumptre – “They Counted Us Out!”
Plumptre, who was part of Nigeria’s strong defensive line throughout the tournament, admitted the team was widely underestimated before the clash against the reigning WAFCON bronze medalists.
“I think a lot of people counted us out, almost like we were underdogs at times. It was nice to come out with like a statement and that will give us a lot of confidence going into the series.”
Adapting to Each Opponent
‘Oyibo’, as Plumptre is called by her Super Falcons teammate, praised the team’s ability to adjust to the tactical nuances of each game, insisting that the squad will continue to evolve.
“The teams that we played before this game… they respected us by playing in a low block. That’s obviously a lot harder to be able to get the goals.”
With a semifinal clash looming against defending champions South Africa, the Super Falcons are chasing their 12th WAFCON title, and should they win this edition, proving that they are still the team to beat in African women’s football.
