Nigeria’s Super Falcons take on Japan in their final group stage game of the 2024 Paris Olympics on wednesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nigeria are condemned to get a handsome win after falling to slim 1-0 defeats against Brazil and Spain in their first two games of the competition.
Coach Randy Waldrum will feel hard done following the results in Nigeria’s first two game because the Super Falcons were quite solid defensively and only conceded because of lapses in concentration.
In the second game, Waldrum made two changes from the first match against Spain. Esther Okoronkwo and Asisat Oshoala were introduced for Chinwendu Ihezuo and Jennifer Echegini.
Ahead of the third game against Japan, Soccernet.ng aims to predict the starting lineup that Waldrum will roll out for Nigeria.
In the goalkeeper position, Paris FC star Chiamaka Nnadozie is expected to keep her place in the starting lineup. She has been impressive so far, albeit her mistake cost the Super Falcons the game against Spain.
Meanwhile, in the defense line, coach Waldrum is expected to retain his trusted four in Chidinma Okeke, Tosin Demehin, Osinachi Ohale, and Michelle Alozie.
Moving over to the midfield, Toni Payne is expected to keep her spot, alongside Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun.
Should Oshoala start again?
Oshoala did not start Nigeria’s first game against Brazil, but Waldrum gave her a starting shirt in the second game against Spain.
She did not perform badly though despite missing one big chance that could have give Nigeria the lead in the first half. The Bay Arena star’s hold-up play was decent, and she could have registered an assist if Okoronkwo’s shot was not saved by Cata Coll.
With the influence she had in the game against Spain, Oshoala would likely start her in Nigeria’s attack. And of course, Rasheedat Ajibade would get a shirt, while Esther Okoronkwo will complete the lineup.
