Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade has assured Nigerians that the team is fully prepared for its crucial encounter against Zambia, insisting the players understand the importance of the fixture and are determined to deliver their best performance.
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated match, Ajibade expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and urged fans to rally behind the team.
“We are fully prepared to go into the game against Zambia with everyone giving their best. We know what is at stake. We hope the fans enjoy the game, and we will give our ultimate best,” the captain said.
Goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor also highlighted the positive atmosphere within the camp, revealing that the players have continued to motivate one another despite the pressure surrounding the team.
“The mood is alright in camp. We’ve really had to get behind each other and support one another, keep at it, and keep pushing harder for the next game ahead,” Erhabor stated.
Defender Sikiratu Isah echoed the team’s confidence, promising an improved display against Zambia while dismissing the ongoing criticism from some quarters.
“For the next game, expect a very good performance and a good win. I am not so attracted to social media, and despite the criticisms going on, we are not moved. We will come back stronger,” Isah said.
Ajibade also addressed online criticism regarding her deployment in midfield, clarifying that positional changes within the Super Falcons are part of the team’s tactical approach and not a source of disagreement with the coaching staff.
“Playing in midfield is never a problem, and neither is it an issue between me and the coach. On several occasions, we swap positions between the wings and midfield in the Super Falcons. Those who have followed the team know this. Club football is also different from national team football,” she explained.
She stressed that the Coach bases tactical decisions on the strengths of individual players.
“It’s all about knowing your players’ strengths and using them effectively. If you watch the Super Falcons closely, the connection has always been there. I don’t think my role negatively affected the team’s performance. I’m comfortable playing in any position the coach asks me to. We are all on the same page.”
Reflecting on the team’s previous outing, the Captain admitted that the game did not go according to plan but insisted it should not be seen as a failure of the team’s tactical approach.
“It didn’t work the way we planned in the last game, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good tactical plan for us going forward. We remain united, focused, and determined to improve.”
The Super Falcons now shift their absolute attention to the decisive clash against Zambia, with the players confident they can respond positively and book their place in the next stage of the competition.
