Super Falcons Retain 36th Spot In Latest FIFA Rankings

Obasempire reports that Nigeria’s senior women’s football team, the Super Falcons, have maintained their 36th spot in the latest FIFA global rankings, as announced on Friday, August 16, 2024.

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The Super Falcons also retain their position as the top-ranked women’s team in Africa, highlighting their continued dominance on the continent.

This ranking comes despite a poor performance at the recent Women’s Summer Olympics football tournament in Paris, France.

The Super Eagles fell in the latest FIFA rankings as Spain rose to 3rd.

The Super Falcons struggled to progress past the group stage, with three straight losses. They were defeated 1-0 by both Brazil and Spain, followed by a 3-1 loss to Japan, ending up at the bottom of Group C.

In the African rankings, South Africa follows Nigeria (50th), Morocco (59th), Zambia (62nd), and Ghana (66th).

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Despite recent setbacks, the Super Falcons are still recognized as a powerful team in African women’s football.

Top 10 teams globally, according to the latest FIFA rankings:

United States, England, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Canada, Japan, Brazil, Korea DPR, France.

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Nigeria Advances to Final Olympic Women’s Football Qualifiers

Obasempire reports that the Nigeria’s women’s football team, the Super Falcons, has triumphed over their West African counterparts, Cameroon, for the Olympic games.

Read More: Super Falcons Determined to Overpower Indomitable Lionesses, Says Ajibade

The Super Falcons secured a spot in the final round of qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in a thrilling encounter on Monday in Abuja.

The Super Falcons will now contend against either longstanding rivals South Africa or Tanzania for a chance to compete in the prestigious event.

The decisive moment came in the 15th minute when Esther Okoronkwo netted a crucial goal at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. Okoronkwo seized the opportunity after goalkeeper Michaely Bihina deflected Rasheedat Ajibade’s chip, giving Nigeria a vital 1-0 aggregate lead over the Lionesses.

Despite Cameroon’s relentless efforts, the Super Falcons held firm, spurred by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s exceptional saves, notably thwarting Menene Meyong’s header in the 32nd minute.

In a tense second half, Bihina showcased her prowess, denying multiple attempts by Ajibade, Echegini, and Nigerian substitutes Akudo Ogbonna and Asisat Oshoala.

Nnadozie further reinforced Nigeria’s defense, notably blocking Marie Ngah Manga’s close-range effort in the 60th minute. Cameroon’s hopes dwindled as substitute Marie Enganemben received a red card, leaving them with 10 players.

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Looking ahead, Randy Waldrum’s squad eagerly anticipates the outcome of the South Africa versus Tanzania fixture, scheduled for Tuesday. South Africa currently holds a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in Dar es Salaam.

The final showdown for Nigeria to secure their first Olympic appearance since Beijing 2008 is set for April.

Super Falcons Determined to Overpower Indomitable Lionesses, Says Ajibade

Obasempire reports that Super Falcons and Atletico Madrid forward Rasheedat Ajibade has expressed unwavering determination ahead of Monday’s clash against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon.

Despite a strong performance at the Stade de la Reunification in Douala, Cameroon, Randy Waldrum’s squad narrowly missed securing a goal, leaving them hungry for victory in the upcoming match at the M.K.O Stadium in Abuja.

With an Olympic berth hanging in the balance, both teams are poised for a fierce battle in the return leg. Ajibade emphasized the team’s collective goal, stating, “Our objective remains to get the Olympic ticket.”

She further underscored her personal ambition, highlighting the significance of representing Nigeria at the Olympics. “Personally, I have never played at the Olympics and that is the case with an overwhelming majority of players in this team.

“We are determined to take this opportunity. We have another ninety minutes to claim the final-round ticket, and we are focused on a positive result,” Ajibade affirmed.

Joining the squad are Ashleigh Plumptre and Coach Randy Waldrum, marking their return after the FIFA 2023 Women’s World Cup. Their presence bolsters Nigeria’s lineup as they strive for Olympic qualification.

The showdown between Nigeria and Cameroon is set to unfold at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium in Abuja at 4 pm on Monday. As the pursuit for a spot in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris intensifies, anticipation mounts for a riveting encounter.