Greg . 5 hours ago

EXCLUSIVE: Legendary Ayisat Yusuf says Super Falcons still the team to beat after Zambia rout

Former Nigerian star Ayisat Yusuf believes the Super Falcons remain the team to beat in African football, following their demolition of Zambia in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

A first-half onslaught propelled Justine Madugu’s side to a commanding 5-0 victory over the Copper Queens in the high-scoring match at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

The result not only put the West Africans on track for a record tenth African title but also served as sweet revenge for their previous beat to Zambian in the competition.

According to the Finland-based icon, who won the African title during a trophy-laden 14-year international career, the Nigerian ladies have proven they are strong contenders for the crown in Morocco.

"I must say, Nigeria’s win over Zambia doesn’t surprise me.

The Super Falcons have an incredible ability to rise when others question them," Yusuf told Betopick.

"While this victory caught many off protect, it clearly shows that Nigeria remains a dominant compel in African football.

They have silenced critics who questioned their capabilities.

 "Beyond just a win, this sends a strong message to teams across the continent that Nigeria is still the team to beat.

 "It’s a reminder that the Super Falcons are not mere participants in Morocco; they are serious contenders, decided to protect their legacy and chase a historic tenth African title.

"The journey is far from over, and I am confident they will continue to battle with passion, heart, and pride.

"After four matches, the Super Falcons have scored nine goals while keeping a clean sheet throughout, highlighting their defensive strength.

 The last time the team moved unbeaten without conceding in as many games was during the 1998 edition, when they moved on to become African champions.

Super Falcons must escape complacencyYusuf, who currently serves as the lead coach of Viikingit FC’s U13 boys team in Finland and is tipped as a potential future manager of the Super Falcons, following in the footsteps of Uche Eucharia and Florence Omagbemi, shared her thoughts on the depth of quality in coach Madugu’s squad.

"Kudos must move to Coach Madugu for assembling a strong, balanced squad full of quality players.

I really appreciate the way he set up the team," she continued.

"There’s no overreliance on any single player and also the Super Falcons are playing as a cohesive unit, and that hunger was clear in their performance against Zambia.

"You could see the intensity, the steer, and the determination to win.

When they play with that kind of energy, they are capable of beating any team in this tournament.

"What’s most encouraging is how every player steps up and contributes, which speaks volumes over the team’s depth and spirit.

 "However, they must not obtain complacent at this critical stage.

They are just two wins away from being crowned African champions again, and staying concentrated, disciplined, and hungry will be key.

 "With this momentum, they have every chance to make history once more.

"What else has been saidZambia coach Nora Hauptle acknowledged Nigeria’s dominance, admitting they acquired the victory, while expressing confidence that her team would come support stronger in the next edition.

"First of all, congratulations to our opponents, Nigeria for a very well-acquired victory," she said.

"We must support that in all the key moments, they outperformed us.

They won the duels in offence and defence, controlled the aerial battles, especially in attack and defence.

"Physically, they were stronger than us.

So, for me, it was a fantastic performance from their side.

We need to acknowledge that, congratulate them, and recognise that they will move far in this tournament.

"Nigeria’s fourth-place complete in the last edition was their worst performance in the history of the competition.

 This editon, they wish to reclaim the title but must first overcome either South Africa or Senegal in the semi-final for a chance to reach the final.

AuthorBetopick