Super Falcons interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has challenged his players to secure another victory against Comoros as Nigeria seek to advance to the third round of the African qualifying series for the 2028 Olympic Games.
The 10-time African champions take a 2-0 advantage into Tuesday’s return fixture at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, following goals from Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu in Friday’s encounter.
Despite their advantage, Eguavoen said the team would not settle for protecting its lead, insisting that another win remained the priority.
“We are enjoying a two-goal advantage, but we will try as much as possible to see how we can wrap it up by winning tomorrow’s game — maybe one, maybe two, maybe three,” he said at the pre-match press conference.
“I’m interested in goals, but the structure of the team is what I’m really interested in. The bottom line is to win, and we will try to do that.”
The coach also indicated that he could make changes to the starting line-up as he continues to assess options ahead of the tougher challenges expected in subsequent rounds.
Nigeria handed midfielder Joy Igbokwe her first start in Friday’s match, while other players could get opportunities in Tuesday’s encounter.
Eguavoen disclosed that 28 players were invited for the assignment, with 27 in camp and about 14 receiving their first call-ups.
“We’re trying to have a very big pool, so that when the games become tougher, we have maybe 40 players to draw from,” he said.
He praised Igbokwe’s performance and said the competition for places had been encouraging.
“I’m very pleased with Joy Igbokwe’s performance. You might see some other players tomorrow, too,” he added.
Nigeria could also consider goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma, defenders Farida Abdulwahab and Tumininu Adeshina, and midfielder Suliat Abideen, who impressed after coming on in the second half of Friday’s match.
In attack, Shakirat Moshood, Folashade Ijamilusi, Blessing Nkor, Blessing Okpe and Sweden-based Joy Omewa are among the available options.
Comoros are playing both legs in Nigeria because they lack a venue approved by the Confederation of African Football for international matches.
A victory or draw would secure Nigeria’s progression, while even a one-goal defeat would leave the Falcons ahead on aggregate.
Forward Kanu, who scored in the first leg, said the team was determined to qualify for the Olympics and compete for the title.
“Playing on a big stage like the Olympics is huge for me personally. Our goal isn’t just to make it to the Olympics, but to look at the trophy,” she said.
“We want to win as the coach said, and score as many goals as possible.”
Nigeria are seeking consecutive appearances at the women’s Olympic football tournament after returning to the competition at Paris 2024, their first appearance in 16 years.
If they progress, the Falcons will face Morocco in the third round in March 2027.
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