24th June, 2011
Paul Hamilton, former Super Falcons coach, spoke to SUNDAY AKINTOYE about the chances of Nigeria’s female national team at the FIFA Women World Cup
Super Falcons are playing their first match against France on Sunday at the FIFA Women World Cup in Germany, how will you rate them?
I am looking forward to the encounter because both teams will not like to lose their first game.
However, I see the Nigeria team coming out victorious in that match. We cannot afford to lose our first match because it is very important. If Falcons can win their first game, it will be a psychological boost for the players to confront the host country, Germany in the second match
Looking at the preparation of Falcons, are you satisfied?
I am satisfied with their preparation. Our national team had a good preparation and that is why I feel they will go far in the tournament.
While you are satisfied with their preparation, many Nigerians are complaining that the team are not strong enough to play at the World stage?
Nigerians are impatient when it comes to football. We need to support these young girls to do well in Germany. For me, Falcons are good enough to confront any team at the World Cup.
What do you think will help the Falcons go far in the tournament?
If the coach can work on the strength and speed of the players, I see them reaching the final. World Cup is all about determination and teamwork. The players should play like a team and be ready to give their best in the tournament. They should see all their opponents as potential winners. This will enable them to take every match with all seriousness.
How do you see the team’s final list?
I am happy that the coach has selected a blend of young and old players to build a formidable team that will confront any country in the World. Like I said earlier, the young ones have speed and strength to give their opponents a run for their money, while the experienced players among them will be needed in the sensitive areas of the game. When it comes to set pieces, marking the players and penalty shootout, I believe the experienced players can do the job perfectly well.
Many Nigerians believe that Falcons’ match against Germany will be a one-sided affair, what is your opinion about this?
Honestly, as Nigerians are afraid, so also are the Germans. The match will be tough for both countries. Falcons are strong contenders and I will not be surprised if Falcons shock them or possibly play a draw with them.
Don’t forget that Germany defeated Falcons 8-0 in the friendly match played late last year, can we still expect such victory from the hosts?
It is going to be a different ball game when both teams meet now. I don’t want to comment much about that until both teams clash again in a crucial tie.
Any advice for the Falcons?
They have prepared well. They have played series of friendlies in their training tour, it is now left for them to prove the world wrong, that they are not pushovers as far as Women World Cup is concerned.
