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Nnadozie: Super Falcons will adopt 'one-match-at-a-time' strategy for cup defense

From ThisDay · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Nigeria's goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie outlines the Super Falcons' strategy for the Women Africa Cup of Nations.
  • The team plans to adopt a "one match at a time" approach to avoid over-confidence while pursuing World Cup qualification and retaining their title.
  • Nnadozie emphasizes that all participating teams deserve respect, as there are no longer easy opponents in African women's football.

Nigeria's star goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has revealed the Super Falcons' strategic mindset as they prepare to defend their title at the 14th Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Nnadozie, widely recognized as one of the world's top women's goalkeepers and a three-time recipient of the African Woman Goalkeeper of the Year award, stated that the 10-time champions will focus on a match-by-match approach.

We will take it one match at a time because we cannot afford to stumble at any stage as a result of over-confidence. We will be focused squarely on the double targets of FIFA World Cup ticket and retaining the trophy.

— Chiamaka NnadozieThe Nigerian goalkeeper explained the team's approach to the upcoming tournament.

This strategy aims to prevent complacency as they navigate Group C, facing Egypt, Zambia, and newcomers Malawi. The tournament is scheduled to run from July 26 to August 16. Nnadozie stressed the importance of staying focused on their dual objectives: securing a FIFA World Cup ticket and successfully retaining the continental trophy. She acknowledged the expansion of the finals to 16 teams, noting it will increase competitiveness but expressed the team's calm and focused demeanor regardless of the field size.

I don’t share the belief that any group is tougher than the others. Honestly, right now in Africa, there are no longer minnows. There will be a lot of surprises in this tournament as the so-called small teams will be keen to prove they are no push-overs, so all teams deserve respect and must be taken seriously.

— Chiamaka NnadozieThe goalkeeper commented on the competitive landscape of African women's football.

Nnadozie dismissed the notion that certain groups are inherently tougher than others. "Honestly, right now in Africa, there are no longer minnows," she asserted. She anticipates numerous surprises in the tournament, as traditionally smaller teams will be eager to prove their capabilities. Therefore, Nnadozie believes all teams warrant respect and must be taken seriously. The Super Falcons are aware of their goals, aiming for both the Cup and a World Cup spot, acknowledging the challenge ahead but expressing confidence in their team's ability.

For us, we know what we are going for: the Cup and the World Cup ticket. It will not be easy but we are the Super Falcons of Nigeria!

— Chiamaka NnadozieNnadozie expressed the team's determination and confidence ahead of the tournament.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ThisDay in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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