Defending champions the Super Falcons of Nigeria will tonight open their WAFCON title defence against Banyana Banyana of South Africa, who have boasted it is now their time to win their first continental crown.
The Super Falcons are gunning for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title in Morocco.
However, despite their dominance on the continent they have lately stumbled against the likes of South Africa, Cote d’Ivoire and Cameroon.
Banyana Banyana self-confidence going into tonight’s group clash has been boosted by their recent results against the Nigerian ladies.
The South Africans upset Nigeria in a group game at the 2018 WAFCON in Ghana before they fell by the odd goal to the same team in the semifinals.
They then shocked the all-conquering Falcons 4-2 in an invitational tournament hosted by Nigeria last year in Lagos.
Banyana Banyana simply outclassed their hosts right in front of their partisan fans.
No 1 goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is suspended for this clash but it is expected that new captain Onome Ebi will call up her vast experience to stablise a defence that also boasts Ashleigh Plumptre from English club Leicester City and Osinachi Ohale.
Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala will lead the Falcons charge for goals along with new discovery Ifeoma Onumonu and Toni Payne.
But they will be without the experienced forward ‘Franny’ Francisca Ordega, who has been banned by CAF on medical grounds.
“We will be more prepared against South Africa this time and we are looking forward to the match,” said Falcons coach Randy Waldrum.
“They are a quality team and one of the best in Africa.”
South Africa’s major goal threat is striker Thembi Katglana, who features for Spanish club Atletico Madrid.
Kick-off time tonight is 6pm in Nigeria.
