WAFCON2022: Waldrum confident of victory over Zambia

Nigeria head coach Randy Waldrum remains confident that his side will win Friday’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON2022) third place playoff against Zambia in spite of their squad issues.

The Super Falcons lost to hosts Morocco on Monday in an excruciating semi-final duel, setting up a meeting with Zambia at the Mohammed V Stadium, Casablanca on Friday evening.

Monday’s defeat left Waldrum without two of his top performers – midfielder Halimatu Ayinde and attacker Rasheedat Ajibade – who were both sent off in the game and they will also be without captain Onome Ebi who suffered a hamstring injury same night.

Speaking to the press ahead of the clash with the Copper Queens of Zambia, Waldrum admitted the effect of the loss of the players but believes the team will have enough that should win them the game.

“We have two players suspended as a result of red cards in the last game, and we also have some players down with injury. So, there will be changes but we will go for the best legs that can give us victory on Friday,” said the current University of Pittsburgh coach.

In Ebi’s absence, Nigeria could be led out against Zambia by England-born star Ashleigh Plumptre who slotted into the centre back role after her captain’s injury.

“We have a mountain to surmount, surely, but we are ready and will approach the game like the final match.

“We are a high achieving team, and we play every game as if it is the final and tomorrow won’t be any different. We are confident of getting something positive out of the game,” said Plumptre at the Press Conference.

Result of the third place playoff regardless, both Nigeria and Zambia have earned berths at next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup to be staged in Australia and New Zealand.