Drop Oshoala! – Nigerians call for bold changes to Super Falcons ahead WAFCON clash vs Botswana

As the Super Falcons gear up for a crucial Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) clash against Botswana, Nigerian fans are making their voices heard.

After a solid but imperfect win over Tunisia, supporters are calling for three major tactical and lineup changes to ensure a more dominant display against Botswana.

Fans are clamoring for Okoronkwo, who impressed as a substitute and won Player of the Match against Tunisia, to start in the number 9 role. 

Her energy and attacking instincts transformed Nigeria’s play in the second half, providing an assist and creating multiple chances. 

Many believe that Okoronkwo’s presence as a central striker will give the Falcons a sharper edge in front of goal, while allowing Asisat Oshoala, who opened our WAFCON account, to be used as an impact substitute later in the match.

“Okoronkwo is a 9, not a winger. Play front 3 of Okoronkwo, Ajibade, Babajide—the match will be over in 30 minutes. Oshoala can come later in the second half,” one fan urged.

There’s a growing sentiment that Everton’s Payne is not as effective on the flanks, where she played against Tunisia, and should be played centrally, where her vision and passing can better influence the game. 

Fans argue that deploying her as a central midfielder or attacking playmaker would maximise her strengths and help Nigeria control the tempo.

Several supporters have pointed out that Payne’s creativity is wasted on the wing, and that she could form a dynamic partnership with the likes of Jennifer Echegini or Christy Ucheibe in midfield.

Nigerians are also calling for Benfica star Ucheibe or Paris Saint-Germain’s Echegini to anchor the midfield. 

Both players are seen as upgrades in terms of composure, ball progression, and attacking support. 

Ucheibe, in particular, has a history of delivering against Botswana, having scored in their previous WAFCON meeting.

Fans want a midfield trio that blends strength and creativity, suggesting a combination of Ucheibe, Echegini, and Halimatu Ayinde to provide balance and attacking impetus.

Aslo, there were suggestions that skipper Rasheedat Ajibade will be better deployed for the Falcons on the wings where she has shown she can cause more problems for teams.

“@Justine Madugu, Ajibade is a right winger not a 10, you wasted her in that match... play Okoronkwo as a 9, with Ajibade and Babajide on the wings,” another fan posted, echoing the call for a more natural attacking setup.

With Nigeria aiming to secure early qualification for the quarterfinals, these three changes reflect the passionate and tactical awareness of the Super Falcons’ fan base. 

Whether Coach Justine Madugu will heed these calls remains to be seen, but the message from Nigerians is clear: it’s time for bold choices and a more attacking approach against Botswana

As the Super Falcons gear up for a crucial Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) clash against Botswana, Nigerian fans are making their voices heard.