By John Essien
Ahead of today’s crunch semi-final clash against the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco, Super Falcons star Ngozi Okobi is bullish about Nigeria’s prospect of qualifying for a record tenth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final.
Nigeria reached the last four of the continental showpiece after a second-half strike from Rasheedat Ajibade helped the African champions secure a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, Reynald Pedros’ women will go into this encounter fueled by their impressive form.
They are unbeaten in their last twelve outings across all competitions, and are capable of handing the Falcons a huge scare in front of their home fans.
Regardless of whatever threat the North Africans are likely to pose, Okobi who plays in the Swedish top-flight for Eskilstuna United has expressed optimism about the Nigeria’s chances of progressing.
“No matter who we face, whether it’s the host country or whatever, it’s football… we have to be ready to win and qualify for the final,” the striker told CAF website.
Morocco had silenced Botswana 2-1 to reach the last four – their best performance ever since making their debut in 1998.
This will be the first encounter between both countries at the international level, however, Nigeria boast a strong Wafcon reputation – ruling the continent for a record nine times.
