Nigeria snapped a five-game losing streak under Coach Randy Wladrum when they defeated the Haitians in Antalya, Turkey ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The goals were scored by Esther Okoronkwo and Asisat Oshoala. After the game, Waldrum said his team was getting set for the World Cup, adding that the friendly games have helped in shaping the squad for the task.
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Waldrum, who is aiming to reach the semifinals of the World Cup for the first time, is banking on the impressive Okoronkwo, Oshoala, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, Rashidat Ajibade, Tosin Demehin, Desire Oparanozie and Monday Gift to actualise his dreams.
New Zealand is expected to present a tougher challenge to Nigeria than Haiti, but the game promises excitement for football fans.
Nigeria, rated 45th in the FIFA women’s world rankings, are preparing for the FIFA Women’s World Cup where they’ll face Australia, Canada and Republic of Ireland in their group.
Both games will be played at Mardan Sports Complex, Antalya, Turkey, kicking off at 2.00 p.m. Nigerian time.
The game against Nigeria means that the Ferns will have faced a side from every FIFA confederation outside of Oceania in preparation for the Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria have played three games in 2023, beating Colombia 1-0 and losing 1-0 to Mexico and to Costa Rica by the same score. The three games were part of the Women’s Revelations Cup tournament held in Mexico in February.
Looking ahead to a good game, New Zeakland Coach, Jitka Klimková said: “We were keen to face an African side so that we have challenged ourselves against every other confederation, and Nigeria are the perfect opponent.
“As a team, we were disappointed with the results against Portugal and Argentina, so I know everyone is keen to get back on the pitch to show what we can do.”
