Super Falcons interim coach Austin Eguavoen has urged patience as Nigeria work to expand their pool of players before the next stages of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers.

Eguavoen said new players would need to be introduced gradually so the team can strengthen its options without disrupting the progress made by the senior women’s national side.

The coaching staff plan to use available international windows to assess players who were not involved in Nigeria’s recent matches. The intention is to give those players an opportunity to demonstrate that they can contribute to the team, while creating greater competition for places in future selections.

Eguavoen believes the Super Falcons still have the quality and personnel required to remain Africa’s leading team. However, he also accepts that Nigeria must develop a deeper squad if they are to cope with more demanding opposition in the international fixtures ahead.

Gradual changes planned by Eguavoen

The interim coach said the technical staff would examine opportunities to bring additional players into the squad, but would do so while preserving the team’s competitiveness.

Rather than making a large number of changes at the same time, the plan is to assess players who missed the recent matches and allow them to make their case for inclusion. Eguavoen stressed the importance of finding a balance between introducing new talent and retaining the experienced core that has helped the team maintain its standards.

He also acknowledged the pressure that can accompany the process. A defeat could lead to criticism even when the result comes during an attempt to integrate unfamiliar players into the side.

For that reason, the coaching staff want to make changes in stages. New players can be given time to settle into the squad, while the team continues to rely on a solid group of established performers.

Wider squad is a priority for Olympic campaign

Nigeria are seeking more selection options as they prepare for tougher fixtures in their bid to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Eguavoen’s approach is designed to ensure that the technical crew have a stronger pool from which to choose as the qualification campaign develops. At the same time, he wants to avoid any decline in the Super Falcons’ performances during the transition.

The planned use of international windows will allow the staff to review players who have not recently featured and determine whether they can meet the demands of the senior national team.

By widening the squad progressively, Eguavoen hopes Nigeria can maintain its established strength while preparing additional players for the challenges that lie ahead.