Nigeria vs Comoros: Eguavoen sticks with same first leg winning Super Falcons XI
Interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has retained the same starting XI for Nigeria’s second-leg encounter against Comoros in the race for a place at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, keeping faith with the core of the team that featured in the 2-0 first leg win in Ikenne, Ogun State.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie continues between the posts, with Christy Ucheibe, Shukurat Oladipo, Michelle Alozie and Glory Ogbonna forming the defensive unit.
In midfield, Joy Igbokwe retains her place alongside Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini, while Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday and captain Rasheedat Ajibade lead Nigeria’s attack.
Igbokwe’s continued inclusion underlines Eguavoen’s confidence in the young Nasarawa Amazons midfielder, who is making her mark at senior international level after progressing through Nigeria’s youth ranks.
The decision to maintain the same line-up also signals the coach’s preference for continuity as the Super Falcons pursue qualification for the women’s football tournament at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Nnadozie provides experience in goal, while the defensive quartet will be expected to maintain its organisation and limit Comoros’ attacking opportunities.
The midfield combination of Payne, Echegini and Igbokwe offers a blend of international experience, technical ability and youthful energy, with the trio tasked with controlling possession and creating chances for the forwards.
Up front, Kanu, Monday and Ajibade remain responsible for providing the attacking threat, as Nigeria look to turn their superiority into goals.
Nigeria entered the second round of the African qualifying series with a bye, while Comoros advanced after recording a 30-0 aggregate victory over Sudan.
The Super Falcons will be aiming to negotiate the two-legged tie successfully as they pursue one of Africa’s two available places at the 2028 Olympic women’s football tournament.
Nigeria’s Starting XI vs Comoros
Goalkeeper
• Chiamaka Nnadozie
Defenders
• Christy Ucheibe
• Shukurat Oladipo
• Michelle Alozie
• Glory Ogbonna
Midfielders
• Joy Igbokwe
• Toni Payne
• Jennifer Echegini
Forwards
• Uchenna Kanu
• Gift Monday
• Rasheedat Ajibade (Captain)
