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.
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.
"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.
Related content
20:48 - 30.07.2023
Ireland vs Nigeria: Coach Waldrum expecting Super Falcons’ ‘hardest match’
Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum is refusing to underestimate Ireland despite Nigeria being on the verge of qualification
20:24 - 30.07.2023
Super Falcons’ stars risk suspension against Ireland
A couple of Super Falcons players will have to play against Ireland with the safety on as they risk being suspended for Nigeria's Round of 16 clash
15:45 - 30.07.2023
Asisat Oshoala: Nigerian celebrities beg Alhaji to forgive Super Falcons star for shirtless celebration
Super Falcons match-winner Asisat Oshoala revealed her father was unhappy after she chose to take her shirt off during celebrations.
17:56 - 29.07.2023
Super Falcons: Oshoala has surpassed Nkwocha and Akide as Nigeria’s greatest women’s player
When Mercy Akide and Perpetua Nkwocha dominated Women’s football in Africa, not many believed that their records could be matched, but years later, the story is different.
17:17 - 29.07.2023
Asisat Oshoala makes history as the most followed African sportswoman on Instagram
"Agba Baller" Oshoala has recorded a record-breaking milestone on Instagram.
21:00 - 28.07.2023
‘There’s still work to do’ - Waldrum charges Falcons to keep going
After a sensational win over Australia, Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum believes that there is still more for the team to do
18:05 - 28.07.2023
I am not selfish — Oshoala on Super Falcons victory
Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala delivered an explosive post-match interview after the 3-2 victory over Australia at the ongoing FIFA Women's World Cup.