Olympics Qualifier: Super Falcons, Bayana Bayana Ready For Battle

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria and South Africa’s women’s national teams will renew their football rivalry as they battle in a first-leg Olympic qualifier at the MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday evening.

With Nigeria hosting the first-leg, the return leg has been scheduled for the 9th of April at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria. The winner will be decided on an aggregate scoring and in turn, will qualify for the Paris Olympics in June and August.

Nigeria faced Cameroon in the third round of Women’s Olympic qualifying and managed to record a slender 1-0 aggregate win against the Indomitable Lionesses while South Africa earned their way to the fourth round of qualifying following a 4-0 aggregate victory against Tanzania.

Speaking on the encounter, Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum described Desiree Ellis’ side as ‘dangerous’, given their firepower upfront.

“They’re a very good side, they’re the defending African Champions so we need to have some respect for them. I love some of their talent especially up-front,” Waldrum said.

“They’re very dangerous and I know their coach does a really good job, but like I said before, I really like our team and I have all the confidence in our players that we’ll perform well.”

Also, Banyana defender Lebohang Ramalepe conceded that facing the Super Falcons will be a ‘do-or-die’ affair.

“To be honest, this is going to be a tough game. Remember, both teams didn’t qualify for the last Olympics. So, it’s a do-or-die!” Ramalepe said.

“But we are ready because we know how important the game is. It’s just a matter of going there and doing our best.”