As Nigerians continue to savour the victory of the Super Falcons against Australia in the ongoing Women World Cup, an Ebonyi-based coach has described the team’s strikers as ‘lethal’ against the opponents.
Ebonyi football fans generally see victory over co-hosts Australia at the FIFA Women World Cup as a soothing balm on the current economic pains in Nigeria.
The senior female national team beat Australia 3-2 on Thursday, to claim the top spot of Group B at the competition Australia is co-hosting with New Zealand.
Jude Akah, the coach of Dynamite Ladies Football Club of Abakaliki, said that Nigerians are happy with the team’s response after its barren draw with Canada.
“The midfield improved on its performances in the Canadian match and was able to link effectively with the attack.
“The strikers were lethal as they took their chances in the Australian game which made the difference,” he said.
The fans who spoke to NAN in Abakaliki said that the victory has brought smiles to Nigerians and hope of a better future.
Hillary Ogbonna, a Deputy Director in the Ebonyi Sports Council, said that the victory has re-inforced the spirit of tenacity in Nigerians.
“The team played with grit and determination against Australia and didn’t give their opponents undeserved respect with their vociferous fans.
“This shows that one can excel in any situation despite prevailing challenges,” he said.
Silas Onuegbu, a Businessman and Football Enthusiast, commended Coach Randy Waldrum for organising the team despite challenges faced before the competition.
“Waldrum has brought out the best from the players despite perceived rift with the nation’s soccer authorities.
“The team should not be complacent but sustain the current momentum which has brought it commendations,” he said.
Supporting this assertion, Nkechinyere Oginyi, state Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), urged Nigerians to continue praying for the team.
“Nigerians should not overate the team with this victory but pray that it remains focussed as the tournament progresses.
“This is a world cup and performances are not judged with single games,” she said
