Spain Coach wary of two Super Falcons stars ahead of Olympic games clash
As the Super Falcons prepare for their second Olympic fixture against Spain, head coach Montserrat Tomé has issued a cautionary note to her squad, pinpointing two Nigerian players who could significantly impact the game.
Spain, having secured a victory against Japan in their opening match, will face a Super Falcons team eager to bounce back from a narrow 1-0 loss to Brazil. Montserrat Tomé has carefully analyzed Nigeria’s strengths and identified key threats in the Super Falcons’ lineup.
Tomé highlighted two players in particular: Rasheedat Ajibade and Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Tomé noted that Nigeria’s attack often centers on the left side, where Rasheedat Ajibade operates. Ajibade’s dynamic play and attacking prowess are well-recognized, and her ability to exploit defensive gaps is a significant concern for the Spanish coach. Ajibade’s skills and agility make her a focal point in Nigeria’s offensive strategy.
Tomé also pointed out Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Super Falcons’ goalkeeper, as a player to watch. Nnadozie’s impressive long throws and goalkeeping abilities make her a crucial part of Nigeria’s defensive setup. Tomé is wary of Nnadozie’s potential to disrupt Spain’s attacking rhythm with her precise distribution and strong shot-stopping capabilities.
Montserrat Tomé said, “They are a physically very strong rival, who will take everything to individual and physical duels. It will be very different from Japan because they will let us play less.
“We have studied them well and I would highlight that they play a lot on the left side, where there is an Ajibade that we know well, and that they have a goalkeeper, Nnadozie, who has a fairly long serve and is quite good.”
The Super Falcons’ physical style of play and their resilience in individual duels are aspects that Tomé has emphasized. Spain will need to adapt to Nigeria’s robust approach, which contrasts with their previous encounter against Japan.
Despite Nigeria’s recent defeat, players like Deborah Abiodun, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Ajibade, along with Nnadozie, demonstrated significant talent and potential, making the Super Falcons a formidable opponent for Spain.
