Oshoala warns Super Falcons ahead of South Africa play-off

Chiamaka Oshoala has called on the Super Falcons to fight for their chance at the World Cup in a decisive play-off against South Africa. The Al-Hilal striker noted that while the current situation is not what Nigeria intended, the team remains focused on securing a place in the tournament in Brazil.

Both Nigeria and South Africa face a do-or-die encounter after failing to secure automatic qualification during the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The Super Falcons were eliminated in the quarter-finals following a 1-0 loss to Cameroon. Similarly, Banyana Banyana exited the competition after a 2-1 defeat to the hosts, Morocco.

The 31-year-old forward acknowledged the difficulty of facing South Africa, describing them as a strong footballing nation. Oshoala suggested that the intensity of the match will be heightened because Nigeria previously eliminated them from both the Olympics and the WAFCON.

Nigeria has held a recent advantage in this rivalry, winning encounters during the 2024 Olympic qualifiers and the 2025 WAFCON. However, the striker believes the recent setbacks experienced by both sides will make the upcoming match even more competitive.

Oshoala described the two sides as wounded lions who are determined to compete for the available spot. The six-time African Player of the Year emphasized that the team must go all out to ensure they do not miss the opportunity to reach the World Cup.