Super Falcons are a world-class team notwithstanding the FIFA rankings which place them at No 38 in the world, according to coach Thomas Dennerby.
Super Falcons Reach Round of 16
The nine-time African champions claims will be put to serious test this afternoon in Grenoble when they come up against two-time world champions Germany for a place in the quarterfinal of the World Cup in France.
“I think the Nigerian team is definitely so much better than the ranking. Everyone can see from our performances that we are not acting like a team ranked 38,” said Dennerby.
“It’s a good team. We can play any team between 10 -20 and win the game. And play very close games with the 10 best also. So yes, we are a world-class team.”
The Falcons have sneaked through to the knockout stage of the World Cup only for the second time in their history with the first time being 20 years ago in the USA.
Germany coach Voss-Tecklenburg said she expects the Falcons to give everything today.
“At their reaction (after their qualification was confirmed), you could see how much this means to Nigeria. They will give everything in this Round of 16,” she said.
Rain disrupted the Falcons training yesterday and they will be without reliable defender Ngozi Ebere, who was sent off against France, as well as experienced midfielder Rita Chikwelu, who received her second booking against the host country in Rennes.
There are also injury fears surrounding star player Asisat Oshoala, who was forced out against France with a suspected hamstring.
Kick-off time will be 4.30pm in Nigeria.
