Barcelona Star Oshoala Backs Nigeria’s Bid To Host 2020 AWCON

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) are in a desperate search for a new host of the biennial tournament, and the Super Falcons striker has thrown her weight behind her country’s bid to stage the event.

2019 African Footballer of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, has urged the Nigeria Football Federation to press forward with its plans to host the 2020 African Women Cup of Nations as it would yield good short and long term benefits.

The venue of the 12th edition of the AWCON is yet to be confirmed after the Republic of Congo withdrew as hosts of the 12-team event last year.

Nigeria, alongside Equatorial Guinea, have so far shown their interest in hosting the 2020 African Women Cup of Nations.

Speaking to Goal.com regarding Nigeria’s planned bid to organise the women’s continental showpiece, Oshoala believes it would bring positive development to the game in the country.

“I think it is a very good move by the country and the Nigeria Football Federation,” said the four-time African Best Player award winner.

“We really need this because Nigeria lost out in the bid to secure the hosting rights for the U20 Women’s World Cup this year. We have what it takes to host the continent.

“If they can get the rights to host the African Women’s Cup of Nations this year, it will be good for our country’s football.

“It will also prepare the country ahead of the U17 Women’s World Cup and U20 Women’s World Cup tournaments. I believe if we can host one of these events for us to prepare for the bigger stage.”

Nigeria are the defending champions and have hosted the competition in 1998, 2002 and 2006.