Oparanozie returns as Waldrum names Super Falcons for Haiti, New Zealand
Oshoala, Ajibade, Ebi named in squad for friendlies
Erstwhile Super Falcons captain Desire Oparanozie will make her return to the national team fold for the friendlies against Haiti and New Zealand in April. The China-based striker was included in the 23-player squad for the World Cup warmup friendlies by coach Randy Waldrum.
Alongside Oparanozie, Waldrum invited 40-year-old Abia Angels defender and captain Onome Ebi, Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade. There was also room for young Rivers Angels midfielder Deborah Abiodun and Stade de Reims duo of Rofiat Imuran and Tosin Demehin. Abia Angels goalkeeper Inyene Etim also received a first invitation to the squad for the friendlies in Antalya, Turkey.
The team will take on Haiti on April 7th before playing a second game against the World Cup co-hosts New Zealand on April 11th. The Super Falcons secured a narrow win over Costa Rica in their last friendly at the Revelations Cup, ending a dire run of seven defeats. The goalscorer in that game, Esther Okoronkwo, was also invited for this set of friendlies.
Here is the Super Falcons squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Yewande Balogun, Inyene Etim.
Defenders: Onome Ebi, Ashleigh Plumptre, Osinachi Ohale, Glory Ogbonna, Rofiat Imuran, Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie.
Midfielders: Regina Otu, Halimatu Ayinde, Ngozi Okobi, Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Deborah Abiodun.
Forwards: Asisat Oshoala, Desire Oparanozie, Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, Ifeoma Onumonu, Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday.
