In what promises to be a thrilling encounter, the Super Falcons of Nigeria are set to clash with the Banyana Banyana of South Africa in a high-stakes showdown for the final Olympic spot.
As the top-ranked team in Africa, Nigeria carries the weight of expectation into this crucial match against the defending African champions, South Africa.
The first leg of this last qualifying match for the Women's Olympic Football Tournament is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 5, with the decisive second leg following four days later.
The winner of this intense showdown will secure a coveted spot in Group C of the Olympic tournament, joining Women's World Cup holders Spain, Japan, and Brazil in Paris.
With such formidable opponents awaiting them, both Nigeria and South Africa understand the magnitude of the task at hand and are prepared to leave it all on the field to claim victory.
The stage is set for a fiercely contested battle between two of Africa's footballing powerhouses.
Kick-off time for the first leg is scheduled for 17:00 WAT, and fans can expect nothing short of an electrifying display of skill, determination, and passion as these two teams vie for Olympic qualification.
Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana clash for Olympic Qualification in women's football showdown
The race for Olympic qualification in African women's football has reached its climax, with Nigeria and South Africa emerging as the final contenders vying for a coveted spot in the Tokyo Games.
The journey to this crucial stage began last July in the CAF Olympic Qualification Tournament, featuring Africa's four representatives from the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Nigeria faced a tough challenge in the second round, being held to a surprising 1-1 draw by Ethiopia in Addis Ababa.
However, a resilient performance in the second leg in Abeokuta saw them secure a vital victory, with Rasheedat Ajibade's brace paving the way for their progression.
In the third round, Cameroon proved to be formidable opponents, but Esther Okoronkwo's decisive strike in Abuja sealed Nigeria's path to the final qualifying round.
Star forward Asisat Oshoala has been instrumental for the Super Falcons, both in the Olympic qualifiers and in her club career with Bay FC in the NWSL.
With Oshoala leading the attack, Nigeria aims to secure their first Olympic berth since Beijing 2008.
Meanwhile, South Africa enjoyed a smoother journey to the final qualifying round, with Thembi Kgatlana leading the charge.
Kgatlana's heroics, including crucial goals against DR Congo and Tanzania, propelled Banyana Banyana to victory and secured their spot in the last stage of qualification.
With Kgatlana's stellar form and past Olympic experience, South Africa is determined to make their mark in Paris, aiming for a third appearance in the Olympic Games.
As Nigeria and South Africa prepare to face off in the decisive final qualifying round, anticipation and excitement run high.
With Olympic dreams hanging in the balance, both teams are ready to leave everything on the field in pursuit of glory.
Stay tuned as the drama unfolds and Africa's representatives battle for their place on the world stage.
Referees assigned for Super Falcons vs Banyana Banyana clash
The referees have been appointed to ensure fair play and officiate the game diligently.
Algerian referee Ghada Mehat will lead the team of officials for the crucial match.
Mehat will be supported by Asma Feriel Ouahab from Mehat's native country and Lamia Atman from Mauritius as assistant referee 1 and fourth official, respectively. Mariem Cheddad will take on the role of assistant referee 2.
The match will also have experienced former FIFA referee Fadouma Dia from Senegal as the referee assessor, with Christine Ziga from Ghana serving as the commissioner.
For the return leg scheduled to take place in South Africa on Tuesday, April 9th, Tunisian official Dorsaf Ganouati has been appointed as the referee.
Ganouati will be assisted by Egyptian officials Yara Atef Abdelfattah and Houda Afine as assistant referees 2 and 1, respectively.
Emna Ajbouni, also from Egypt, will serve as the fourth official. Eswatini's Cindy Dludlu will be the commissioner for the match, while the referee assessor role will be fulfilled by Agar Mezing from Cameroon.
Where to watch Super Falcons vs Banyana Banyana?
Football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the showdown between the Super Falcons and the Banyana Banyana can catch all the action live from various platforms.
In Nigeria:
- NTA Sports 24: Nigerians can tune in to NTA Sports 24 to watch the match live on television.
- NFFTV YouTube Channel: For those preferring online streaming, the official YouTube platform of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFFTV) will also provide live coverage of the game.
In South Africa:
- SABC Sport: South African fans can catch the live broadcast of the match on SABC Sport, offering comprehensive coverage of the game.
- DSTV: The match will also be available on DSTV, ensuring that viewers across South Africa can enjoy the action from the comfort of their homes.
With multiple options for viewing, football enthusiasts from both nations can look forward to an exhilarating match as the Super Falcons and Banyana Banyana battle it out for victory in the Olympic Qualification clash.
This article was most recently revised and updated 2 years ago
