2027 WWC Playoffs: Super Falcons Will Fight to Beat South Africa — Oshoala

Super Falcons striker Asisat Oshoala has stressed that Nigeria cannot afford to miss out on qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The West Africans lost their chance of automatic qualification after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Cameroon in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday.

Justine Madugu’s side must now take a more difficult route to the World Cup, beginning with Thursday’s play-in clash against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana.

The encounter is scheduled to take place at the Moulay Rachid Stadium in Casablanca, with kick-off set for 9pm Nigerian time.

Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico has increased the pressure on the Super Falcons to secure a place at the women’s tournament.

Oshoala said the team could not afford to disappoint Nigerians again, stressing the importance of securing the World Cup ticket.

The experienced forward also appealed to supporters to stand firmly behind the team as they prepare for the crucial encounter.

“The only thing I can say right now is we need their support. The World Cup ticket is at stake, so this is the time when we really need everyone to support the team,” Oshoala said.

The Super Falcons will need to overcome South Africa to advance to the next stage of the African play-offs and keep their hopes of reaching the 2027 World Cup alive.