Super Falcons kick off Olympic qualifier training with nine players

Nine players have arrived at the Super Falcons’ camp in Ikenne as Nigeria starts preparations for their 2028 Olympic qualifying match against Comoros.

The early arrivals give interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen a group to begin working with as the team gears up for the two-legged match set for October.

Eguavoen had called up 28 players for this important Olympic qualifying challenge, aiming to move past a disappointing showing at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Falcons confirmed the latest arrivals on their social media accounts. Farida AbdulWahab, Tumininu Adeshina, Joy Igbokwe, Fatimoh Solaty, Christiana Uzoma, Blessing Nkor, Valentina Uroko, Glory Edet, and Sandra John have all joined the squad at camp.

Their arrival marks the start of a crucial period for Eguavoen and his players as Nigeria focuses on securing a spot at the 2028 Olympic Games.

The Super Falcons faced a disappointing performance at the 2026 WAFCON, where they did not achieve the success expected from one of Africa’s top women’s teams.

Worse still, Nigeria's poor showing in the tournament led to the nation missing out on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time ever.

This setback makes the Olympic qualifying campaign even more critical, as the team looks to bounce back on the international scene.

While nine players are already on ground, more established stars are expected to join the team this week.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, experienced forward Asisat Oshoala, defender Ashleigh Plumptre, and Monday Gift are among those expected.

Their presence will give Eguavoen added experience and talent as the technical team starts to shape the squad for the Comoros match.

Having senior players will help Nigeria quickly build unity within the squad, especially with the two matches just four days apart.

For Eguavoen, the main challenge is to mix the younger players already in camp with the seasoned stars coming in while making sure the team is ready for the Comoros test.

Nigeria will host Comoros in the first leg of the Olympic qualifier on Friday, 9 October, with the return leg just four days later.

The Super Falcons need to use their home advantage in the first leg to put themselves in a strong position before the crucial second match.

Eguavoen knows that the Olympic qualifiers give the team a chance to rebuild confidence after the disappointment of WAFCON.

With the World Cup qualification setback still fresh, the Super Falcons cannot afford another early setback.

The goal is clear: start strong against Comoros, take charge of the tie, and keep Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the Olympic stage alive.

For the players already in camp, preparations have kicked off. For those still expected to arrive, the countdown is on.

For Eguavoen, the October matches mean more than just another qualifying round; it is a major chance to lead the Super Falcons towards a positive turnaround after one of the toughest times in Nigerian women’s football.