April 06, (THEWILL) – Super Falcons’ coach, Randy Waldrum, has expressed concern about his team’s upcoming matches in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, describing them as “scary”, ahead of friendly matches against Haiti and World Cup co-hosts, New Zealand.
As THEWILL reported, the Super Falcons were drawn into Group B, where they will face Ireland, Olympic champions, Canada, and tournament co-hosts, Australia. The month-long event is scheduled to take place from July 20 to August 20.
“It’s scary, to be honest. Our first two games are brutal. Many people have our group ranked as the hardest in the World Cup,” Waldrum said in a recent interview. “The other three teams are all ranked in the top 25 in the world. They all pose different kinds of problems.
“Just like Canada, Australia has so, so many stars. They have Sam Kerr leading the line and a host of really, really talented players behind her. And if that’s not going to be hard enough, they’re the host nation, so we’ve got a lot to overcome.” This is even more so as Nigeria failed to defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in Morocco last year, and will face a daunting challenge in the World Cup finals.
“It’s going to be a very, very big challenge for us,” the American tactician added. “Obviously, as a coach, I look forward to these challenges, and I think our players also will, but clearly it will be very difficult for us. Look at Australia’s recent performances. They’re handling strong opposition pretty easily. Australia is flying right now and, in a World Cup at home, they’re sure to be flying.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
