Predicted Nigeria XI vs Cameroon: Asisat Oshoala out; Kanu in: How will Super Falcons line up vs Indomitable Lioness?

The Super Falcons of Nigeria, following a goalless draw in Douala, are set to host the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon in the return leg of their Olympic qualification fixture in Abuja, Soccernet.ng reports.

Head coach Randy Waldrum, returning to lead the team for the first time since the 2023 Women’s World Cup, aimed to inject vigour into the squad that previously defeated Ethiopia 5-1 on aggregate in November 2023 to advance to the penultimate round of qualifiers.

However, the 11-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions struggled to replicate their previous performance in Douala.

Nevertheless, they have another opportunity to secure a spot at the 2024 Olympic tournament in Paris, France, as they return to the Abuja stadium.

Soccernet.ng highlights Waldrum’s expected strategy, aiming to solidify the squad in a 4-3-3 formation:

Goalkeeper:

Chiamaka Nnadozie, the Paris FC goalkeeper and 2023 CAF Best Goalkeeper for women, is anticipated to maintain her position.

Defenders:

The back four deployed in Nigeria’s previous match in Douala is likely to remain unchanged, featuring Ashleigh Plumptre as left-back, Demehin Oluwatosin and Osinachi Ohale in central defense, and Michelle Alozie as right-back.

Midfielders:

Halimatu Ayinde, Christy Ucheibe, and Deborah Abiodun are expected to retain their roles in midfield, providing stability against the Cameroonians.

Forwards:

Asisat Oshoala’s recent form has been below par, suggesting Uchenna Kanu may lead the attacking line in place of the former Barcelona star.

Rasheedat Ajibade is poised to captain the side from the left flank, with Toni Payne on the right.

Expected Super Falcons XI vs Cameroon:

Nnadozie; Plumptre, Demehin, Ohale, Alozie; Ayinde, Ucheibe, Deborah; Ajibade, Kanu, Payne.

NB: Do you see the Super Falcons winning Cameroon with this formation? Leave your comments below.