America-Nigerian Footballer and Super Falcons’ forward, Antionette Oyedupe Payne, has weighed in on the Super Falcons’ preparations towards their FIFA Women’s World Cup opening encounter against Canada, saying the team is ready for the World Cup finals.
Payne, 28, a Sevilla player who was amongst the goal scorers in the team’s friendly game against Australian-based club Queensland FC, spoke about the team’s objective and preparations towards the start of the World Cup next weekend.
According to her, the Super Falcons have their sights set on the opening fixture against Olympic champions and fellow Group B opponents, Canada Women on the 21st of July.
“I think as a team, we played well, and our objective is to improve and grow our system in every game and training session. Step by step we are preparing for our first game against Canada.”
The Super Falcons enjoyed a thrilling friendly encounter against Queensland FC scoring 8 goals and conceding once, with the likes of Asisat Oshoala bagging a brace, while Ifeoma Onumonu, Rasheedat Ajibade, Halimatu Ayinde, Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday, and Toni Payne all got on the scoresheet.
Toni also expressed positive vibes regarding the team’s newly appointed fitness coach – Kyle Quigley, who has introduced new ideas and fitness routines to help the Falcons achieve their collective aim.
“The new fitness coach is coming with a lot of new ideas, and it is helping us get prepared for the World Cup with the right fitness routine and sessions in training.
When asked about how the team will play against the hosts – Australia Women who faced France in a friendly encounter, Toni Payne confirmed that the Super Falcons are on the same wavelength as their counterparts.
“We are very confident with the players we have here, I think we are on the same level as they (Australia) are and we are ready to fight.”
The Super Falcons have appeared in every FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament since its inception in 1991 and would be looking to go one better than their quarterfinal reach 24 years ago in the United States of America.
