France-based female striker, Desire Oparanozie has shot a look ahead of Nigeria’s first match at this year’s Africa Women Cup of Nations in Ghana, and says their opponents, South Africa, are a good side the need to be wary of.
Although Oparanozie believes Nigeria will scale the hurdle when both sides clash next Sunday in Cape Cost, Ghana, sports247.ng learnt she admits the Falcons cannot afford to take Banyana Banyana for granted.
Rather than be overconfident heading into their ripening Group B fixture, the Guingamp of France star says the Falcons must be wary of their opponents in order to get a good start to the continental soccer showpiece.
Nonetheless, Oparanozie is also rating the Falcons high, as she believes they have what other teams in Africa lack, which she believes would be a plus for them at AWCON 2018 in Ghana.
The 24-year-old striker said she is happy that the Falcons enjoy a cordial team spirit that makes life easier for them on and off the pitch, and should help them win the tournament.
“We live as a unit. There is that bond between us and we are all thinking less about ourselves and thinking more about our common goal which is an 11th title.
“People tend to see Nigeria as top favourites (but) I personally don’t think so. You have to prove it on the pitch and not on paper and not ahead of the tournament.
“South Africa are a good side. Don’t forget they have been finalists four times. Equatorial Guinea are back. They won the title in 2008 and in 2012.
“Zambia have greatly improved. Qualifying from the group would not be easy for any of the four teams. It’s going to be a battle. Nigeria have defeated host teams before.
“Although there would likely be huge home support for the Black Queens due to the popularity of female football in Ghana, we have gone past that. We will focus on our play.”
