The Super Falcons have been urged to turn their strong preparations into a commanding start to Nigeria’s bid for a place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, with the Nigeria Football Federation calling for focus, discipline and a winning mentality against Comoros.

Acting NFF General Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, delivered the message during a visit to the Super Falcons’ camp in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, on Thursday, where he assessed preparations and interacted with the players and coaching staff ahead of Friday’s first-leg second-round qualifier.

Ikpeme expressed satisfaction with the organisation and commitment he found in camp, praising both the players and technical crew for their work ahead of a fixture that marks Nigeria’s entry into the African Olympic qualifying campaign.

He challenged the players to approach the match with the mentality required to make full use of their home surroundings and establish an advantage before the return fixture.

The Super Falcons will face Comoros at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne-Remo on Friday, October 9, with kick-off scheduled for 6 p.m.

Interestingly, the encounter was originally scheduled to be played in Comoros. However, CAF moved the fixture to Nigeria because Comoros does not have a venue approved for international matches. As a result, both legs of the second-round tie will be played at Remo Stars Stadium, with the return scheduled for October 13.

That arrangement gives Nigeria a rare opportunity to play both matches on familiar ground, increasing the importance of establishing a positive result in the opening game.

Nigeria received a bye into the second round as one of the three highest-ranked teams in the qualifying competition. Comoros, meanwhile, reached this stage after defeating Sudan 30-0 on aggregate.

Nigeria must navigate four two-legged knockout rounds to secure one of Africa’s two available places at the 2028 Olympic women’s football tournament. Should the Falcons advance, they are scheduled to face either the Democratic Republic of Congo or Morocco in the third round in February and March 2027. (Daily Trust)