Nigeria’s women national team, the Super Falcons, will take on Cape Verde in the second round of qualifiers for the 2024 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.
Cape Verde earned their place in the crucial encounter after a strong showing against Liberia in the first-round playoffs. Over two legs,
Cape Verde defeated Liberia 6-2 on aggregate, winning 3-0 at home before securing a 3-2 victory in Monrovia. The determination of coach Silvéria Nédio’s Cape Verdean side was clear for all to see as they battled their way to the second round.
In contrast, Nigeria received a bye to this stage after Sao Tome and Principe withdrew from their first leg fixture, handing the Super Falcons a walkover. The Falcons are Africa’s most successful women’s team, lifting the trophy nine times previously and qualifying for every FIFA Women’s World Cup to date. Most recently, they reached the knockout rounds in July’s tournament in Australia and New Zealand.
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Cape Verde will face a considerable challenge against the Nigerian giants. As the 133rd-ranked team globally, Cape Verde are relative minnows internationally. They have never qualified for a Women’s Africa Cup, Olympics, or the FIFA World Cup. However, their victory over Liberia demonstrates their potential and will provide confidence heading into the decisive tie.
The showdown between Nigeria and Cape Verde is scheduled for December as both countries pursue a place at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, to be hosted by Morocco.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
