Super Falcons’ stars risk suspension against Ireland

Super Falcons’ stars risk suspension against Ireland

Ayoola Kelechi 20:24 - 30.07.2023

A couple of Super Falcons players will have to play against Ireland with the safety on as they risk being suspended for Nigeria's Round of 16 clash

Two key players on the Super Falcons’ roster are at risk of being suspended for Nigeria’s round of 16 clash if they scale through the group stage.

Super Falcons set for Round of 16 qualification

The Super Falcons are on the brink of reaching the second round of the Women’s World Cup for the second time in a row, having never managed the feat in their history before this.

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Thanks to a win over co-hosts Australia and a draw against reigning Olympic champions Canada, Nigeria currently sits atop Group B and only need a draw against Ireland to seal a place in the round of 16.

The Super Falcons would have to tread carefully to avoid going into the second round of games short-staffed as two key players will play the final group game against Ireland while walking a disciplinary tightrope to dodge a suspension.

Alozie and Oshoala risk second-round suspension

Both Michelle Alozie and Asisat Oshoala are one yellow card away from suspension after picking up yellow cards in Nigeria’s famous win over Australia.

Asisat Oshoala came off the bench to inspire the Super Falcons with a goal against Australia
Asisat Oshoala came off the bench to inspire the Super Falcons with a goal against Australia

Alozie was booked for a first-half foul, while Oshoala was shown a yellow card for her celebration after taking off her shirt following her goal for the Super Falcons against Australia.

The duo will now have to avoid picking up another yellow card against Ireland, as consecutive matches with yellow cards attract a one-match suspension.

Michelle Alozie gives a thumbs up after the game against Canada.
Michelle Alozie gives a thumbs up after the game against Canada.

Another Super Falcons player, Blessing Demehin, also picked up a yellow card in a previous match, however, her booking came against Canada, meaning she is not at risk of a suspension even if she gets yellow carded against Ireland.

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