Ahead of Monday’s Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-final match, Randy Waldrum, head coach of Nigeria’s women’s national team, acknowledged that Morocco represents a significant threat to him.
With a 1-0 victory over Cameroon in the quarterfinal, the Super Falcons advanced to the semifinals.
For the hosts, they defeated Botswana 2-1 to advance to the semifinals, which was their best showing since their 1998 debut.
Waldrum believes the Lionesses of Atlas have a chance when the two nations square off at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, even though Nigeria may be the favourites to advance to the final.
Waldrum told the Caf website, “I saw them for the first time in September and I was very impressed by the quality of their team and by the football they play.
“I said as soon as I arrived in Morocco that they are the team that can surprise. I know how this team has developed for three years now.
“They are one of the best teams in the competition and are capable of beating any other team.
“We have respect for Morocco and the way they have played in this tournament. It’s a big challenge for us.
“Certainly, we have a lot of experience and a lot see us as favourites, but in football everything is possible and we have to be ready for this game.”