'We pray she makes it' - Madugu admits veteran forward is doubtful for Wafcon final

The Super Falcons are facing a nervous wait over the fitness of veteran forward Francisca Ordega ahead of their Women's Africa Cup of Nations final clash against hosts Morocco on Saturday evening at the Olympic  Stadium in Rabat.

Ordega was an unused substitute in Nigeria's matches against Tunisia, Botswana and Zambia, but featured for the entire duration of the final group stage clash against Algeria.

However, the Al-Ittihad striker was omitted from the matchday squad for the Super Falcons' semifinal victory over South Africa.

Nigeria coach Justin Madugu confirmed during the pre-match press conference that Ordega sat out training on Thursday after sustaining a knock, with the medical team now racing against time to get her ready for the final.

"Francisca Ordega was out of training because she had a knock. The medical team is also working on her to see how fast she can recover," Madugu told reporters.

The potential absence of the seasoned attacker is a significant concern for Nigeria, who are chasing a record-extending 10th Wafcon title.

"Where she might not be able to make it, it's a sad development for us," Madugu added.

"We just pray she makes it. If she doesn't, the other members of the team will carry on. Even her support will also go a long way."

The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women's national team, will look to draw on their depth and experience as they aim to reclaim the continental crown in front of a partisan Moroccan crowd.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com