Big blow! Former USA-based player and Atletico’s Ajibade suspended for 2023 WWC Group B clash against Canada

Nigeria's Super Falcons are matched up in Group B against Olympic winners Canada, co-hosts Australia, and first-timers Republic of Ireland

The Super Falcons, Nigeria's women's national football team, will face a challenging test in their Group B clash against Olympic champions, Canada, at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, Soccernet.ng reports.

Unfortunately, they will be without the services of key players Rasheedat Ajibade and Halimat Ayinde, who are both suspended for the upcoming match.

Ayinde who previously played for Western New York Flash in the United States and Atletico Madrid Femeni forward, Ajibade, received suspensions after being sent off during the Super Falcons' semi-final clash against host nation Morocco at the 2022 Africa Women's World Cup.

FIFA's disciplinary review, released on Wednesday, confirmed their ineligibility to participate in the crucial encounter against Canada.

The Group B showdown will occur at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3.30 am Nigeria time.

This match is anticipated to be a highly competitive affair, given Canada's status as Olympic champions and Nigeria's strong reputation in women's football.

Apart from Canada, the Super Falcons will also have to face tough opponents in co-hosts Australia and debutants Republic of Ireland within the same group.

Their path to the knockout stages will undoubtedly be a challenging one, but the Nigerian team remains determined to put up a spirited fight and progress in the tournament.