The Super Falcons of Nigeria have encountered a setback as their Galatasaray defender, Oluwatosin Demehin, withdrew from their upcoming friendly match against France.
Oluwatosin Demehin had to withdraw from the Super Falcons squad due to an injury sustained during a recent league match. This injury leaves interim head coach, Justine Madugu, with 19 players available for the friendly.
The friendly will take place on Saturday at the Stade Raymond Kopa in Angers, with kick-off scheduled for 9:30 PM Nigeria time. This match marks the fourth meeting between Nigeria and France, with the previous three encounters ending in victories for the French team.
Ahead of the friendly match on Saturday night, Coach Madugu is set to conduct an official training session at the venue on Friday evening.
The absence of defender Demehin puts extra pressure on the coaching staff to adjust the lineup effectively.
With Demehin’s absence, a decision will need to be made on who will partner veteran Osinachi Ohale in defence; options include England-based Rofiat Imuran or local-based player Sikiratu Isah, with Michelle Alozie and returning Ashley Plumptre likely taking on the wing-back roles. Shukurat Oladipo could also be an option in the centre-back position.
In midfield, Coach Madugu has a strong roster at his disposal, including Portugal-based Christy Ucheibe, England’s Toni Payne, and France-based Jennifer Echegini, who notably scored Nigeria’s only goal at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament in France this summer.
Home-based talents Adoo Yina and Josephine Mathias will also contribute to the team’s strength in the middle of the pitch.
With Captain Rasheedat Ajibade sidelined due to her injury, the onus will fall on the Spain-based duo of Gift Monday and Rinsola Babajide to lead the attack. They will be joined by local star Mercy Omokwo, along with Blessing Nkor and Ifeoma Onumonu.
According to a statement from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), notable figures from the football body, including President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Women’s Football Committee Chairperson, Aisha Falode, and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, will be in attendance to support the Super Falcons in the clash against Les Bleues.
