Big Match Preview Pack: Nigeria vs Botswana

The Super Falcons of Nigeria are set for their second group game at the 12th Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Super Falcons take on Botswana in their second group game on Thursday at the Stade Moulay Hassan in Rabat at 9 PM Nigerian time.

The team led by head coach Randy Waldrum will have a chance to get their first points of the tournament after a 1-2 loss to the Banyana Banyana of South Africa in their opener.

Debutants Botswana beat Burundi in their first fixture in Morocco with a 4-2 scoreline. Another victory for Gaoletlhoo Nkutlwisang's women will send them into the quarter final.

After a disappointing loss to South Africa, a front foot game should be expected from the Super Falcons. However, with Botswana recording such a dominant and confidence boosting victory against Burundi, it could be a slippery slope for Nigeria to balance their will to win and making sure that they do not lose their structure by over committing.

Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum favours an attacking set-up with the former University of Pittsburgh women's head coach reiterating his desire for Nigeria to be recognised as the team to beat in all competitions whilst recognizing the need to improve on key areas after the loss to South Africa.

His tactics also need to be spot on as this game could decide Nigeria's fate in the tournament.

Botswana coach Gaoletlhoo Nkutlwisang utilizes a 4-4-2 as was displayed against Burundi with emphasis laid on ball progression through the lines and a lot of long-range shots when the chances present themselves.

Fans can expect an attacking game of football with both teams eager to open the goalscoring.

HEAD TO HEAD:

This showdown billed for Rabat marks the first time both countries will be playing at international level.

Nevertheless, Nigeria and Botswana go into the game with contrasting ambitions. While the Super Falcons are targeting their first win in Morocco, Nkutlwisang’s side needs a draw at least to qualify for the quarter-final.