'A really tough team' - Man Utd captain Zelem not taking showdown v Super Falcons lightly 

Manchester United Women captain Katie Zelem has admitted that she is wary of the threat the Super Falcons will pose in the eagerly anticipated showdown at the Lang Park, Brisbane on Monday morning. 

After slender 1-0 wins against Haiti and Denmark, The Lionesses sent out a statement to the other competing nations at the 2023 Fifa Women's World Cup with a resounding 6-1 rout of China PR to top Group D.

Lauren, the younger sister of Chelsea first teamer Reece James, was the standout performer with two goals and three assists.

Against all expectations, Nigeria qualified for the round of 16 from a tough group containing Olympic champions Canada, co-hosts Australia and Republic of Ireland. 

The Super Falcons, coached by American football tactician Randy Waldrum, have become famous for their defensive solidity, having posted shutouts in four of their last six matches against opponents competing at the 2023 Women's World Cup. 

Zelem acknowledged that the Super Falcons have demonstrated their ability in the group stage but stressed that the Lionesses are ready for what lies ahead. 

On facing Nigeria in the round of 16, Zelem told BBC Radio 5 Live after the win versus China PR: "A really tough team.

"Every team that gets into the knockout stages deserves to be there so we know it will be a difficult test and we're ready for it."

The Super Falcons resumed full training activities at Lions FC Stadium on Thursday after they were given two days off as part of their recovery routine following the goalless draw against Republic of Ireland.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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