Olympics qualifiers: Eguavoen hints at playing Super Falcon goalkeeper, Nnadozie as defender

Super Falcons coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has hinted on playing goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, as a central defender .

The former Super Eagles boss said that Nnadozie has the capability to operate as a centre-back following their 2-0 win over Comoros in the first leg of their second-round fixture of the 2028 Olympic qualifying game on Friday in Ikenne-Remo.

Following a scoreless opening half, Michelle Alozie put the Nigerian ladies ahead three minutes into the second half with a close-range strike before Uchenna Kanu clinched the win with a headed finish in the sixtieth minute.

Given the unavailability of Oluwatosin Demehin and Osinachi Ohale’s retirement from international football, Eguavoen was elected to deploy Christy Ucheibe to centre-back position, notwithstanding the midfielder’s customary role in the midfield for the Super Falcons.

When fielding questions on whether Ucheibe might remain in central defence, the coach  spoke about the ability of Nnadozie playing in central defence.

“This is entirely feasible given our fortunate circumstances. My strategic approach requires that for a player to represent us, recognising this is a collective endeavour, they must demonstrate proficiency across multiple positions, which constitutes a considerable benefit,” Eguavoen said during the post-match media briefing.

“Regrettably, Demehin is absent. Osinachi has withdrawn from international competition, despite my efforts to persuade her otherwise, yet she had already determined her course, and we must honour that decision.

“Ucheibe transitioning into this role, we have deliberated on this matter. She possesses all the requisite attributes to excel across multiple positions.

“In actuality, every member of the squad can perform across multiple positions. This represents our competitive advantage. Consequently, it constitutes a positive development for Nigeria.

“She (Nnadozie) is capable of playing centre back. Observing her technical proficiency with the ball throughout our training sessions demonstrates this capability.”