Randy Waldrum issues warning to Super Falcons ahead of South Africa clash
Super Falcons of Nigeria head coach Randy Waldrum has issued a warning to his team ahead of their clash with the Banyana Banyana of South Africa in the final round of qualifiers for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The 67-year-old tactician, who recently returned to the Super Falcons dugout, emphasised the need for caution against their formidable opponents.
Having secured a hard-fought victory over Cameroon in the previous round, thanks to a solitary goal from Esther Okoronkwo, the Super Falcons are gearing up to face Desiree Ellis’s South Africa in a crucial two-legged tie.
In anticipation of the upcoming challenge, Waldrum acknowledged the threat posed by the reigning WAFCON champions, highlighting their attacking prowess. “They’re a very good side, they’re the defending African Champions so we need to have some respect for them. I love some of their talent especially up-front. They’re very dangerous and I know their coach does a really good job,” Waldrum remarked in an interview with NFF TV.
Despite recognizing South Africa’s strengths, Waldrum expressed confidence in the capabilities of his own team, stating, “I really like our team and I have all the confidence in our players that we’ll perform well.”
Both teams will face challenges with key players unavailable due to medical reasons.
South Africa will miss their first-choice goalkeeper, Andile Dlamini, while Nigeria will be without Ashleigh Plumptre and Oluwatosi.
Nevertheless, anticipation is high for what promises to be an intense and closely contested encounter between the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana, with a ticket to the Paris 2024 Olympics at stake.
