The Super Falcons of Nigeria will face Mali in the opening match of the Aisha Buhari Cup 2021 today (Wednesday).
The match will take place at the Mobolaji Johnson stadium in Onikan, Lagos.
The Falcons and Mali will encounter for the tenth time, with the reigning African champions winning nine games and one game resulting in a tie.
With the quality of players expected to play for the Falcons in today's match, it will be surprising if they do not retain their unblemished record against the Malians.
Asisat Oshoala, Desire Oparanozie, Francesca Ordega, Onome Ebi, Osinachi Ohale, and Rasheedat Ajibade are anticipated to compete and are believed to be overwhelming favorites.
The Falcons are in stronger form heading into today's match, having won two of their past five games (two defeats, one draw).
The Malians, on their part, have lost four of their past five games (three defeats, two draws).
This is another chance for head coach Randy Waldrum to rebound after his team's lackluster performance at the Summer Series Invitational in his native country of the United States.
The United States, Nigeria, Portugal, and Jamaica competed in the four-nation event.
The Falcons were defeated 2-0 by the Americans, 1-0 by Jamaica, and 3-3 by Portugal.
However, they will have the opportunity to regain the faith of football fans when they face the Malians in the first game.
