Our superior qualities will give us edge over Mali, says Oshoala

Super Falcons forward, Asisat Oshoala, is confident the team has all it takes to beat Mali on Friday at the Abuja National Stadium and qualify for the All-Africa Games billed for Congo-Brazzaville.

Falcons played a 1-1 draw with Mali in Bamako during the first leg and now need a win, by any margin, or at worst a goalless draw to book a ticket to the 50th edition of the AAG.

But Oshoala believes the team’s qualities will make the difference against the Malians.

“We have a great opportunity here because we are playing at home,” she said.

“And beyond the fact that we are playing at home, it is a game that we must win to qualify for the All Africa Games and I’m sure we will get the result we require.

“It’s going to be a tough game no doubt, but I think we have superior qualities and that is where I think the advantage is for us.

“We have experience of playing at several major championships and I believe that will give us an edge.”

However, the Liverpool Ladies’ star is not keen on scoring as long as the team wins.

“That is not the first thing on my mind. What I have in mind is to win and if I score in the process, good. But the ultimate desire is to win.”

THE SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Precious Dede (Ibom Angels), Ibubeleye Whyte (Rivers Angels)

Defenders: Ugo Njoku (Rivers Angels), Josephine Chukwunonye (Rivers Angels), Sarah Nnodim (Delta Queens), Ngozi Ebere (Rivers Angels), Ohale Osinachi (Rivers Angels), Onome Ebi (Minsk FK)

Midfielders: Evelyn Nwabuoku (Rivers Angels), Loveth Ayila (Rivers Angels), Ngozi Okobi (Delta Queens), Halimatu Ayinde (Delta Queens), Onyinyechi Ohadugha (Rivers Angels)

Attackers: Esther Sunday (Minsk FK), Francisca Ordega (Washington Spirit), Asisat Oshoala (Liverpool Ladies), Desire Oparanozie (En Avant Guingamp), Chioma Wogu (Confluence Queens)