June 17, (THEWILL) – Super Falcons Head Coach, Randy Waldrum, has officially announced the line-up of players, who will represent Nigeria at this year’s FIFA World Cup finals in Australia and New Zealand, with the 23-player squad largely comprised of individuals, who ply their trade outside Nigeria.
This fact showcases the global reach and influence of Nigerian football. With only two players from the domestic league making the final cut for the World Cup, it is evident that the roster, just like the squad picked by Jose Peseiro for the Super Eagles lineup in the AFCON qualifiers, is heavily dominated by foreign-based stars.
Among the prominent names included in the Super Falcons’ squad are Asisat Oshoala, who recently celebrated victory in the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Barcelona, and the record-breaking captain Onome Ebi. The list, revealed via a press statement issued by the Nigeria Football Federation on Friday, also features a talented attacking midfielder for Atletico Madrid, Rasheedat Ajibade.
Indeed, these seasoned players bring their wealth of experience to the team, having previously represented Nigeria in various international competitions, including previous editions of the World Cup. While the squad boasts familiar faces, Coach Waldrum has also shown faith in emerging talents. Rising stars like Oluwatosin Demehin, Jennifer Echegin, and Rofiat Imura have earned their places in the World Cup-bound squad.
With a combination of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, Nigeria aims to make a strong impression at the tournament. It would have been even more commendable to give some other domestic-based players the chance to experience representing the country in the global space. The fact that the Super Falcons will face tough challenges against Canada, co-host nation Australia, and the Republic of Ireland in their quest for success at the FIFA World Cup, may have informed Waldrum’s decision to go with this selection.
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.
