A few members of Nigeria’s women’s football team, the Super Falcons, faced a tense situation in France while preparing for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The team arrived in Bordeaux on Thursday after a training camp in Seville, Spain, led by American head coach Randy Waldrum. They were finalizing their strategy for their first Olympic appearance in 16 years.
Training Camp and Friendly Match
The Super Falcons concluded their training with a closed-door friendly match against Canada in Malaga. Despite losing 1-0 in regulation time, they triumphed 5-4 on penalties, as previously agreed regardless of the match’s outcome.
Arrival in France and Elevator Incident
After leaving Spain on Friday, the team landed in Bordeaux via Paris, where they are set to start their Olympic campaign against Brazil on July 25. However, their stay at the hotel took a dramatic turn when players Asisat Oshoala, Uchenna Kanu, Tochukwu Oluehi, and a few others were trapped in an elevator.
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Despite the scare, the players remained calm until they were rescued. One player vowed not to use the elevator again during their stay. After a few minutes, the elevator door was pried open, and the players continued to their rooms on foot.
Alternate Squad Members Return to Nigeria
Meanwhile, four alternate squad members of the team have returned to Nigeria. Alani Jumoke, Ademola Morufat, Gift Monday, and Regina Otu, who trained with the 18 main players, were named as substitutes in case of injuries. Ifeoma Onumonu, initially on the alternate list, was promoted to the main squad after Halimotu Ayinde’s injury ruled her out of the Olympics.
Before departing, the alternate players visited the Nigerian Embassy in Paris on Friday.
Group Stage and Historical Record
Nigeria has been grouped with Brazil, world champions Spain, and Japan in the first round of the Olympics women’s football tournament. The Super Falcons have a record of one win and eight losses at the Olympics.
