Francisca Ordega believes the Super Falcons have what it takes to defend their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations crown, but the experienced winger has surprisingly looked beyond hosts Morocco as the team Nigeria should be most wary of in this year’s tournament, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria arrive in Morocco chasing a record-extending 11th WAFCON title after completing the famous “Mission X” by lifting the trophy at the last edition. The Super Falcons will begin their campaign against tournament debutants Malawi before taking on Zambia and Egypt in a demanding Group C that many observers have described as one of the toughest in the competition.
Although Morocco will enjoy home support after reaching the last two WAFCON finals, while Zambia boast the attacking firepower of Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, Ordega believes another West African rival could prove to be Nigeria’s biggest obstacle.
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Speaking on Brila FM, as reported by Pulse Sports, the 31-year-old pointed to Ghana’s recent performances as the reason behind her prediction.
“The team I feel will challenge us in this WAFCON is Ghana because I watched one of their friendly matches which they won,” Ordega said.
“There are other teams who will challenge us, but I think Ghana is our main threat in the tournament.”
Nigeria and Ghana have been drawn into separate groups. However, the long-standing rivals could still meet in the knockout rounds if both sides progress. Ghana have been placed in Group D alongside Cameroon, Mali and Cape Verde, and many expect the Black Queens to reach the quarter-finals.
There is also history behind Ordega’s assessment. Nigeria and Ghana have contested three WAFCON finals, in 1998, 2002 and 2006, with the Super Falcons emerging victorious on each occasion. The Black Queens have also shown signs of improvement over the past year, returning to the continental spotlight with a younger squad and renewed ambition.
