Super Falcons’ attacker, Asisat Oshoala is a major doubt for Nigeria’s second group game against Australia on Thursday at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Barcelona forward is reportedly yet to recover from the knock she received in Super Falcons’ battling draw with Canada last Friday.
Oshoala is expected to be rested to allow her recover fully before their third game against Republic of Ireland on July 31st.
In the likelihood of Oshoala’s absence, coach Randy Waldrum may have to call on any of Desire Oparanozie, Jennifer Echegini, Monday Gift and Uchenna Kanu as Nigeria go for the broke against the co-host.
Falcons cannot afford to toil with the game knowing that a surprise win would put them in good shape to reach the knockout rounds.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has returned to training after being excused for one day following the MVP-winning performance against Canada in Melbourne, and consistency is expected in the selection of the rearguard, with Michelle Alozie and Ashley Plumptre on the wings, and veteran Osinachi Ohale and youthful Oluwatosin Demehin at central.
The co-hosts will have to do without their talismanic captain Sam Kerr, who has been the face on most advertisements pertaining to the tournament here.
Antithetically, Nigeria has gained with the return of the fabulous Rasheedat Ajibade – whose goal against Cameroon in the Women Africa Cup of Nations’ quarter-finals secured Nigeria’s passage to these finals – and midfield battering ram Halimatu Ayinde from suspension.
Asisat Oshoala, who suffered a knock against the Canadians, could be excused, with Nigeria sufficiently blessed in Desire Oparanozie, Jennifer Echegini, Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu.
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
