Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum downplays Olympics medal talks, focused on qualification
Randy Waldrum will make his return to the Super Falcons when they face Cameroon for a 2024 Paris Olympic games spot.
Randy Waldrum, the coach of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, has tempered expectations of Olympic success despite the team’s impressive performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Waldrum, who guided the Super Falcons to the knockout stages of the World Cup while remaining undefeated, is preparing to lead the team in a crucial two-legged tie against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon as they aim to qualify for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Speaking in an interview released by the official Super Falcons’ social media page, Waldrum emphasized the importance of focusing on qualification, citing Nigeria’s absence from the Olympics for the past fifteen years.
“The goal is to qualify for the Olympics as we can’t look ahead of ourselves as to the Olympics until we get there, so qualification is going to be the primary goal,” said Waldrum, the former Houston Dash manager.
Acknowledging the challenge posed by Cameroon, Waldrum praised the chemistry within the Super Falcons team and expressed confidence in their ability to deliver strong performances.
“They will be seeking revenge. Both nations know each other very well, have a lot of talent, and are very dangerous, but I really like our squad and the team chemistry,” Waldrum remarked.
The upcoming two-legged tie, scheduled for 23 and 26 February, represents a critical step for Nigeria in their quest to secure a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics. Alongside Waldrum, fan favorite Ashleigh Plumptre is poised to make her return to the Nigerian team, adding depth and experience to the squad for the crucial qualifier.
