Nigeria’s XI vs Canada: Oshoala out as Waldrum unleashes Ajibade and Ihezuo in Super Falcons friendly in Spain

The Super Falcons are ready to trade tackles with Canada in an international friendly at La Quinta Football Centre in Malaga, Spain, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The warmup game against the reigning Olympic champions is Nigeria’s final match before they end their training camp in Spain and head to Paris, France.

For the clash against Canada, head coach Randy Waldrum has settled for his strongest lineup, set up in a diamond 4-4-2 formation.

In goal for Nigeria, is Africa’s number-one shot-stopper and Paris FC goalie, Chiamaka Nnadozie.

The four-woman defence has Michelle Alozie at right-back, Chidinma Okeke at left-back, and the duo of Oluwatosin Demehin and Osinachi Ohale at the centre-back.

US-based Deborah Abiodun and SL Benfica star Christy Ucheibe are Nigeria’s two anchors in midfield. At the same time, new PSG signing Jennifer Echegini and Toni Payne will be providing the ammunition for the team’s attack.

In attack, Waldrum has handed a starting shirt to Chinwendu Ihezuo ahead of former Barcelona goal-queen Asisat Oshoala. Ihezuo will be partnered on the frontline by Atletico Madrid’s Player of the Season Rasheedat Ajibade.

The last time Nigeria faced Canada at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, both teams played out a goalless draw.

Chiamaka saved a second-half penalty while Abiodun was shown a red card as the Super Falcons finished with ten women.