Former Nigerian international Patience Avre-Odeli has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) to begin early preparations for the Super Falcons’ qualification campaign for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The former Super Falcons star warned that Nigeria “cannot afford to miss out” on the Olympics, especially with only two qualification spots available for African teams.
Nigeria are set to face the winner of the clash between Sudan and Comoros in the second round of the African qualifiers scheduled for October 2026.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Avre-Odeli stressed that Olympic qualification in Africa is extremely demanding due to the highly competitive format involving 35 countries battling for just two tickets.
“Without adequate preparations, the team may not do well as expected,” Avre-Odeli warned.
She also appealed directly to NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, urging him to work closely with the NFF to ensure the team receives proper support throughout the qualification campaign.
“Olympic Games African qualifiers have always been tough because only a few tickets are available for Africa, and Nigeria cannot miss out.”
Avre-Odeli expressed confidence in Dikko’s leadership and called for strong collaboration between football authorities and sports administrators.
“I want to believe that Mallam Shehu Dikko will work in harmony with the NFF leadership to provide the Super Falcons all they need.”
The Super Falcons remain Africa’s most successful women’s national team, and expectations will once again be high as they attempt to secure a place at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
