Following the draw for the 2019 Women’s World Cup from June 7 to July 7, hosts France are already aware of the threat Nigeria pose as group opponents alongside Norway and South Korea.
The Super Falcons were humiliated 8-0 in an international friendly against the French team at MMArena (Le Mans) on April 6. However, France know it is going to be a different ball game altogether now.
The Blues manager Corinne Diacre told L’Equipe: ”The Nigerians are champions of Africa, even if we beat them very clearly lately (8-0, April 6). Their defeat at home was very salutary for them.
”Norway finished first in their qualifying group ahead of the Netherlands, European champions.
”South Korea, we know a little less but they have convincing results with draws against Japan and New Zealand recently. There will be nothing easy.”
Meanwhile, Super Falcons’ midfielder, Ngozi Okobi has called on the Nigerian Football Federation to ensure it does everything within its power to prepare the team adequately for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.
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The 24-year-old was reacting to the World Cup draw which pitches Nigeria in Group A alongside hosts France which thrashed Nigeria 8-0 in a friendly match played last year.
“The long-awaited draw has been done. @thenff preparation starts now, it’s only a mentally, physically, tactical team full of motivation with all kind of support that will survive this. @NGSuper_Falcons needs your support, Okobi posted.
Having represented Nigeria at all levels and winning the AWCON four times, the former Washington Spirits player will be targeting her second senior World Cup after the last edition in Canada where the team crashed out of the group stages.
Nigeria and France will do battle on Monday, June 17 in Rennes.
