Waldrum Faces Ajibade, Ayinde, Oshoala Decision Against Australia
Super Falcons Coach, Randy Waldrum, is faced with a selection problem most coaches cherish.
Two of his most consistent players, Rashedat Ajibade and Halimatu Ayinde, were suspended at their opening game of the ongoing FIFA Women World Cup in Australia and New Zealand against Canada and so, he was forced to field youngsters, Christy Ucheibe and Deborah Abiodun, in their stead. But the two former U-20 stars turned out to be the class acts the team had been lacking for so long, demonstrating a tactical discipline that is usually beyond kids of their age.
Now, Ajibade and Ayinde are eligible to play against Australia on Thursday and Waldrum is constrained to make a decision on who plays among the quartet.
‘Fortunately’ for the American, Abiodun is suspended for the game, having copped a red card in the dying minutes of the game against Canada, but Waldrum still has to decide whether to continue with Ucheibe or bring in one of the more experienced players.
According to a source in the team’s camp, the American is contemplating what to do with star striker, Asisat Oshoala, ‘who has not shown the form that made her the hottest African striker in the women’s game.
According to the source, Oshoala has not convinced Waldrum that she has the grit and desire to continue leading the team’s attack, especially now that Nigeria faces must-win games against Australia and Ireland.
Meanwhile, Ajibade is optimistic that Nigeria will get a good result against Australia at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Thursday.
According to Ajibade, the Super Falcons are targeting maximum points against the more favoured Australians, who also have home support going for them.
The forward, who could return to the starting lineup after missing Friday’s game against Canada due to suspension, said: “We remain focused on the matches ahead and will be fighting for maximum points in the subsequent matches.”
Nigeria needs a win and a draw to be sure of qualifying for the second round as only the best two teams from each group will continue in the competition.
