Tinubu Wishes Super Falcons Well as They Take on Australia Today 

*Matildas to miss three key players against Nigeria in Group B cracker

Deji Elumoye  in Abuja 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended best wishes to the Super Falcons of Nigeria as they prepare to face Australia today in their second group match at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023. Kickoff time is 11.00am.

The President, according to a release issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Mr Dele Alake, like other football-loving Nigerians, takes immense pride in the Super Falcons’ impressive performance in the opening match against Canada, a formidable opponent and the reigning Olympic Champions.

He firmly believed that the upcoming match today will be a thrilling encounter that will culminate in victory for the Nigerian team.

Acknowledging the Super Falcons’ remarkable achievements as a dominant force in women’s football in Africa, President Tinubu expressed confidence that the blending of new talents with seasoned veterans will propel Nigeria’s success in women’s football to even greater heights in this tournament.

He assured the players and the coaching crew of the enthusiastic support of all Nigerians, urging the team to continue exemplifying Nigeria’s spirit of determination and excellence both on and off the pitch, serving as worthy ambassadors of the nation.

Meanwhile, Australia Head Coach, Tony Gustavsson, has confirmed that Mary Fowler and Aivi Luik will join the likes of Sam Kerr on the sidelines, ruling the trio out of the all important Group B clash with the nine-time African champions Nigeria.

Both players were ruled out after suffering mild concussions in training on Tuesday. The Aussies are now set to miss the two important players of their squad, along with Kerr – who had earlier missed their victory over Ireland in the opening match. 

Fowler played 85 minutes in their 1-0 win over debutants the Republic of Ireland while Luik was an unused substitute for the Matildas. 

Canada currently tops Group  B on four points after their 2-1 win against Republic of Ireland yesterday. The result means that both Nigeria and host Australia will have a lot at stake this morning before the final group match next week. 

Although a draw may not not be a bad result for the Super Falcons, an outright win will however put Nigeria on the road to qualifying for the Last 16 round. Only the top two teams from each of the eight groups will make it to the knock out phase.