Paris 2024:Ajibade Confident Ahead of Super Falcons Key Qualifier

Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, has expressed confidence in her team’s readiness to face the Bayana Bayana of South Africa in their crucial final round qualifier for the 2024 Olympics in France.

Ajibade expressed her confidence in the team’s ability to win in an interview prior to the game against South Africa at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

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The Atletico Madrid of Spain midfielder added that the Super Falcons are approaching their Friday match with a positive and unwavering mentality.

“The mindset of the camp is positive. So of course, a little bit of stress bur we’re coping and going to manage everything professionally.

We have a mentality right now to make sure that we perform up to expectations, of course with the rivalry between South Africa. So we want to make sure that we stand our ground and defend our home. This is a team thing and we’re going to work it out together.”

Adding to the pre-match buzz, Super Falcons’ dependable backup goalkeeper, Tochukwu Oluehi, echoed the team’s strong conviction.

She emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, calling it a “must-win” encounter.

“I believe my girls, they also know what is at stake. So I believe on Friday game, we are going to win. With the hard work and the dedication and the determination we have in this game, I know with everything the coach and with the players take from the training, I know we are going to come out better against South Africa on Friday.”

Acknowledging the challenge posed by facing the current Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions, the Shualat Alsharqia goalie admitted the match would be difficult.

However, she refused to be intimidated by their formidable reputation of the Bayana Bayana.

“It’s a tough game so nothing to be afraid of and I believe we are going to come out stronger than them.”

The last time South Africa faced the Super Falcons in Nigeria, they defeated Nigeria 4-2 at the Aisha Buhari Women’s Invitational Tournament.

The Super Falcons will face Bayana Bayana in a crucial first leg of the Olympic qualifier on Friday, April 5th. The match will kick off at 5:00 pm WAT at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. The Super Falcons will then travel to Pretoria, South Africa for the return leg on Tuesday, April 9th. The winner over these two matches will secure a spot in the 2024 Olympics in Paris.