Rivals Nigeria, South Africa united by Olympics failure

Both the Super Falcons of Nigeria and their South African rivals Banyana Banyana are fired up for today’s 2024 Olympics playoff by the failure to qualify for the last summer games in Tokyo three years ago.

“We are motivated by the fact that we did not qualify for the last Olympics,” said South Africa captain Thembi Kgatlana after she scored the winner against Tanzania at home to seal qualification to the playoffs against Nigeria.

Banyana defender Lebohang Ramalepe said today’s clash is a fight to finish because they wish to make up for missing out on the Tokyo Olympics.

“To be honest, this is going to be a tough game. Remember, both teams didn’t qualify for the last Olympics. So, it’s a do-or-die!” she predicted.

“But we are ready because we know how important the game is. It’s just a matter of going there and doing our best (on the day).”

Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum said he believes his team will break the jinx of not featuring at the Olympics in many years.

“We’re focused on getting to Paris. They understand the challenge that’s in front of them. It is time (to qualify for the Olympics after a long time),” Waldrum said.

Falcons skipper Rasheedat Ajibade simply said it will be “revenge” when both teams clash again as South Africa have won three of the last four head-to-head meetings.

The overall winners of the playoffs will advance to Paris, where they are drawn in a tough first round group along with world champions Spain, Japan and Brazil.