Coach Justin Madugu of the Super Falcons has been compelled to make replacements for forward Asisat Oshoala and midfielder Jennifer Echegini, who voluntarily opted out of the squad set to contest a 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations final qualifying fixture against Cape Verde.
According to Abdulrafiu Yusuf, the NFF’s Assistant Director (Technical), flight tickets had been sent to both players a week before they announced on Saturday that they would be unable to join the squad.
Yusuf expressed surprise at the sudden decision, stating that midfielder Halimatu Ayinde, who missed the 2024 Olympics qualifying fixture against Ethiopia last month due to injury, is still unavailable.
Similarly, injured forward Ifeoma Onumonu requested to be left out, and defender Michelle Alozie communicated that she would undergo surgery.
Portugal-based Peace Efih has been called up to replace Ayinde, while Motunrayo Ezekiel from Rivers Angels will take the place of Christy Ucheibe, who cannot travel from her base in Portugal.
Chioma Olise, a forward from the Nigeria U20 girls’ team, will replace US-based Echegini, and Chiamaka Chukwu of Rivers Angels has been called up to take Oshoala’s place.
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