Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie and six-time African Women’s Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala have offered confident previews ahead of their second group-stage clash against Botswana tonight at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 in Casablanca.
“It’s Not Going to Be an Easy Game” -Nnadozie
Brighton Women’s new signing, Chiamaka Nnadozie warned that Botswana will be hungrier and more dangerous this time around.
“It’s not going to be an easy game. 2022, we’re also in same group with Botswana and they lost to us and they also lost their first game against Algeria”
“I know they’re going to come out strong this time because this game against Botswana is going to be like a finals because if they win, they’ll be in the game.”
“If they lose, they’re out of the game.”
“But yeah, we’ll just continue to do what we know how to do best. I’m sure they’re going to come with a different style, so same here with our team, but at the end of the day, we’ll try our best to make sure we win the game.”
“It’s not going to be an easy one but we’ll try everything we can to go home with the three points.”
Nnadozie explained the competitive stakes and the Falcon’s resolve to maintain their grip on Group B.
Asisat Oshoala: “Same Energy, Same Thing”
Forward Asisat Oshoala echoed Chiamaka Nnadozie’s comments, stating that the team’s intention is to replicate their winning result performance against Tunisia.
“Same energy, same thing going into the game against Botswana. We need three points obviously like to pull us to the next round.”
“We’re going to approach the game the same way we approached the first one against Tunisia.”
“Going there to earn for three points and get enough goals to get us to the next round.”
Oshoala further shared that the mentality and performance level required to win the game is high, so as to navigate the group stage and advance to the quarterfinals.
Stakes on Nigeria vs Botswana Clash
Nigeria opened WAFCON 2024 with a commanding 3–0 victory over Tunisia, setting the winning tone for their campaign. Botswana on the otherhand, suffered an initial defeat to Algeria
The Mares must claim all three points to stay in contention and will likely use an aggressive and proactive approach, hoping to rebound from their tournament opener.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons, as favourites, need a result to confirm their knockout advancement.
Head-to-Head Edge
Historically, Nigeria has a strong record over Botswana, including a 2–0 win in 2022.
Today’s Match Information
Kick-off: By 20:00 (Nigeria time)
Venue: Casablanca
