Randy Waldrum, the head coach of the Super Falcons, anticipates a challenging test when his team faces the Republic of Ireland on Monday (today).
When the West Africans face Vera Pauw’s team in Brisbane’s Lang Park, they will be attempting to advance to the FIFA Women’s World Cup’s knockout stage for the third time.
With four points from two games, Waldrum’s team leads Group B. They just need a point from this match to guarantee a place in the Round of 16.
The only thing on the line for the Republic of Ireland in this match is dignity after losing their first two games against the co-hosts, Australia and Canada.
Both games were closely contested losses for the Girls in Green (1-0 versus Australia and 2-1 to Canada).
Based on their success in the competition thus far, Waldrum thought they would be difficult for his team to defeat.
“It is going to be a very difficult game. People may think I am crazy for saying this, but I think it could be our hardest match.
“Ireland have been a bit unlucky in the first two matches and could have got a result,” Waldrum told Reuters.
The game will kick-off at 11 am Nigeria time.
