Former Secretary to the Abia State Government, Pastor Ralph Egbu, has offered some advice to Nigeria’s female National football team, the Super Falcons to assist them win future matches.
The Super Falcons lost to the Cameroonian side on Sunday during a quarter final encounter in the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) competition, thereby failing automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Writing in his Facebook page, Egbu, who played good football in his youthful days, advised the Super Falcons to ensure that football possession and pressure are converted into goals.
According to him, “Christy Ucheibe could be very important in providing that defensive stability, while Rasheedat Ajibade needs to be given enough freedom to influence the game in the final third. Justin Madugu also has to rethink the use of Michelle Alozie. Playing her out of position at left-back has raised questions throughout the tournament.
“The defence must remain disciplined. Going forward, Nigeria need to be much more clinical. Against Cameroon, the Falcons created opportunities but lacked the finishing and final pass required to change the result. Players such as Esther Okoronkwo, Toni Payne, Asisat Oshoala and Gift Monday must be more decisive whenever chances arrive.
Talking about the upcoming playoff encounter against South Africa, the former SSG said, “This is not a game where Nigeria can afford to start slowly or wait until the second half before finding urgency. The mentality has to be that of a final.”
Concluding, Egbu asserted, “For me, the key to victory is simple: strong midfield, natural balance in defence, faster attacking transitions and ruthless finishing.”
