Nigeria coach Randy Waldrum has pinpointed his team’s impressive performance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 to the players’ chemistry and their fighting spirit.
The Super Falcons are on the brink of advancing to the round of 16 of the tournament as they currently lead Group B with four points after two matches.
The 11-time African champions started their campaign in Australia and New Zealand with a goalless draw against Tokyo 2020 Olympics Champions, Canada and they followed it up with a 3-2 victory against co-hosts Australia.
As they prepare for their final group game against Republic of Ireland on Monday, Waldrum revealed the factors behind the team’s performance.
The American coach told FIFA: “The first thing is the chemistry and the bond we have. You heard Asisat [Oshoala] speak after the Australia game, she said it’s not about whether she plays for 90 minutes or not, she’s going to give her best no matter how long she has on the field.
“She also very quickly complimented her team-mates and the effort of the team. She gave them the credit even though she scored such a big goal for us. That’s the attitude all of our players have.
“The other thing that really impresses me is the fight this team has. It’s one thing to have talent and have a good team, but there’s something to be said about your heart and what’s inside you.
“That’s innate and it’s part of their DNA. Against Australia, it would have been easy to have folded after going a goal down late in the first half, yet we came back and got the equaliser before the break. This team’s resolve, competitiveness and fight has been nothing short of amazing.”
Waldrum said the team’s objective in Australia and New Zealand is to qualify from the their group, with the country’s best finish at the tournament dating back to 1999 when they reached the quarter-final.
