Asisat Oshoala: Super Falcons coach hints at another bench role for superstar

Asisat Oshoala celebrates scoring against Australia

Asisat Oshoala: Super Falcons coach hints at another bench role for superstar

Ayoola Kelechi 21:24 - 30.07.2023

Coach Randy Waldrum has suggested that superstar forward Asisat Oshoala will not start in the Super Falcons' final group game against Ireland

Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum has suggested that he could start the match against Ireland without match-day two hero Asisat Oshoala.

Oshoala set to start on the bench against Ireland

The Barcelona Femeni forward came off the bench against Australia to great effect, scoring the eventual winner after stalking the Matildas’ defence and profiting from a mix-up at the back.

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She scored her third goal at the Women’s World Cup, becoming the first African player to score at three separate editions of the tournament, and appeared to be hitting good form with her performance in the match against Australia.

Asisat’s exclusion from the starting lineup against Australia was believed to be due to the striker nursing an injury, but coach Waldrum has suggested that she could be set for another start on the bench when the Super Falcons play their final group game against Ireland.

Waldrum not willing to rush Oshoala

Speaking ahead of the final group game against Ireland, Waldrum suggested that Oshoala was recovering well from her injury, but also noted that the forward would not be rushed into the starting lineup.

Oshoala celebrates shirtless after scoring for Super Falcons of Nigeria against Australia
Oshoala celebrates shirtless after scoring for Super Falcons of Nigeria against Australia

"She is doing much better,” Waldrum said, continuing, “We did the right thing by managing her minutes and we might have to do that again in this match. She will definitely be playing, but we will have to see for how long."

With Oshoala on a yellow card and at risk of missing the Round of 16 through suspension, she is unlikely to be risked unless absolutely necessary, and might only see a few minutes against Ireland.

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