Super Falcons Forward Asisat Oshoala has assured Nigerians that the team is mentally prepared to fight for a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup as they turn their attention to the playoff stage.

Speaking ahead of the crucial playoff, Oshoala acknowledged the disappointment of the quarterfinal defeat to Cameroon but stressed that the team must face the situation and focus on the opportunity still available.

“We are where we find ourselves, and we just have to face it. It may not be the best way, but the World Cup is still the target, and we will fight for the spot,” she said.

Oshoala also described South Africa as a strong rival, recalling the difficult encounters between both teams in recent years, including Nigeria’s victories over Banyana Banyana at the Olympics and the last WAFCON.

“We don’t expect it to be an easy game. We are both lionesses on the pitch, and it is definitely going to be a tough game,” she added.

The Experienced Forward also appealed to Nigerians and Super Falcons supporters to continue standing behind the team, acknowledging that the players are equally heartbroken after giving their all against Cameroon.

“We are also heartbroken as players. We ran for 90 minutes and lost the game despite our focus on winning. Mistakes have happened, but we will keep urging everyone to support the team,” Oshoala said.

With the World Cup dream still alive, Oshoala believes the Super Falcons can turn the disappointment into motivation and give Nigerians another reason to smile.

The team now looks ahead to South Africa with one clear objective: fight for the World Cup ticket and keep Nigeria’s dream alive.