Nigeria interim head coach Austin Eguavoen has warned Comoros that visiting teams should find it difficult to leave the country with a positive result as the Super Falcons begin their bid to reach the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
The 10-time African champions face Comoros in a two-legged second-round qualifying tie, with both matches taking place in Ikenne-Remo on 9 October and 13 October.
Nigeria are targeting a second consecutive appearance at the Olympic women's football tournament after competing at Paris 2024. Eguavoen said his team would approach the tie confidently while maintaining respect for their opponents.
The Super Falcons are determined to make home advantage count, but must avoid complacency against a Comoros side hoping to upset the favourites. Progression will be decided by the aggregate score across the two matches.
Eguavoen unfazed by withdrawals
Nigeria's preparations have been affected by several withdrawals from the original squad. Among the notable absentees are forward Asisat Oshoala, defender Ashley Plumptre and defender Oluwatosin Demehin.
Eguavoen has dismissed concerns that the departures could damage Nigeria's campaign and expressed confidence in the players brought in as replacements.
The interim coach said the focus in camp remained on those available rather than those missing, as Nigeria seek a comfortable aggregate victory and a place in the next round.
Only Belarus-based forward Blessing Okpe, who received a late invitation, is still expected to arrive at the team's camp in Ijebu-Ode.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade will lead the Super Falcons in their attempt to qualify for a second successive Olympic women's football tournament. Nigeria's campaign to reach Los Angeles forms part of a five-round African qualifying competition.
The team must negotiate the remaining stages to secure an Olympic place, having featured at Paris 2024 and hoping to return to the global stage in 2028.
Super Falcons squad
Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie, Comfort Erhabor, Christiana Uzoma.
Defenders: Farida Abdulwahab, Sandra John, Tumininu Adeshina, Valentina Uroko, Glory Edet, Shukurat Oladipo, Glory Ogbonna.
Midfielders: Christy Ucheibe, Toni Payne, Favour Omenazu, Joy Igbokwe, Jennifer Echegini, Fatimoh Solaty, Suliat Abideen.
Forwards: Rasheedat Ajibade, Shakirat Moshood, Blessing Nkor, Sandra John, Folashade Ijamilusi, Janet Akekoromowei, Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday, Joy Omewa.
For Eguavoen and his players, the immediate task is to overcome Comoros and take a decisive step towards the 2028 Olympics. Nigeria will aim to dictate both matches, but their confidence must be matched by disciplined performances if they are to avoid an early setback.