Six-time African Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala looks set to continue in her new role as an impact substitute in tomorrow’s Paris Olympics opener versus Brazil.
‘Agba Baller’ was the Super Sub, when she came off the bench to snatch the winner against co-hosts Australia at last year’s World Cup.
Coach Randy Waldrum started her from the bench in the crucial final qualification playoffs against South Africa in Pretoria as he preferred Chinwendu Ihezuo to spearhead the Falcons attack.
This was also the case in the team’s only Pre-Olympics warm-up game against reigning Olympics champions Canada in Spain a week ago.
The directness and experience of the 29-year-old forward will still be needed at the games.
Christy Ucheibe from Benfica will most likely combine with youngster Deborah Abiodun in defensive midfield.
Abiodun, who plays for the Pittsburg University team headed by Waldrum, has come of age since her dismissal at the World Cup last year.
She is the direct replacement for the injured Halimatu Ayinde.
New Everton signing Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini, who has just transferred to PSG from Juventus, will complete the midfield foursome.
Skipper Rasheedat Ajibade will support the attack led by Ihezuo.
There is stability in defence as award-winning goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will again be protected by defenders from the World Cup – fullback Michele Alozie and the central defensive partnership of Osinachi Ohale and Tosin Demehin.
Chindinma Okeke, who was not at the World Cup, will be the most likely replacement at right back for the injured Ashleigh Plumptre.
She played that role very well in the playoffs against Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
Super Falcons Likely Starting XI vs Brazil (4-4-2): Nnadozie – Okeke, Alozie, Ohale, Demehin – Ucheibe, Deborah Abiodun, Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini – Ajibade (captain), Ihezuo
