Cape Verde is one of the emerging nations in African women’s football. The team from the coast of the Atlantic Ocean has in recent times seen off stiff challenges from some of Africa’s more established sides.

They accounted for the exit of the more established Liberia, whom they beat 6-2 to advance to the last qualifying round of the African Women’s Cup of Nations’ qualifying race, where they will meet Nigeria today.

Coach Silvéria Nédio’s side recently held World Cup round of 16 team, Morocco, to a goalless draw and sees the cash with the Super Falcons as one of those games on its way to becoming a force to reckon with in Africa’s women football.

Cape Verde will face a considerable challenge against the Nigerian giants. As the 133rd-ranked team globally, Cape Verde are relative minnows internationally. They have never qualified for a Women’s Africa Cup, Olympics, or the FIFA World Cup.

However, their victory over Liberia demonstrates their potential and will provide confidence heading into the decisive tie.

Today’s tie promises a tough and exciting game that Nigerian star, Toni Payne, predicts would bring out the best in the Super Falcons.

Payne, who plays for Sevilla of Spain, said although Super Falcons are not underrating the Cape Verdeans, the Nigerian girls have put in extra work in training to ensure that no upset happens in Abuja today.

“We haven’t played Cape Verde and definitely can’t take them for granted. All teams are improving and we have to play our best.

“It’s unfortunate not to have our players in the team for this camp but we also have good players like Gift Monday and Uchenna Kanu.

“I think we are very confident going into this match. Nigerians should come out and support us. We will build on what we have done last time and put out a good performance.”

The match at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, will begin by 4.00 p.m.