The Super Falcons may be without one of their most experienced attackers when they face hosts Morocco in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final on Saturday night in Rabat.
Francisca Ordega, a long-serving forward and fan favorite, is battling a fresh injury that kept her out of training just days before the title clash.
Madugu Breaks Silence on Ordega’s Condition
Head coach Justin Madugu shared the concerning update during the team’s pre-match media briefing on Thursday.
“Francisca Ordega was out of training because she had a knock. The medical team is working on her to see how fast she can recover,” Madugu told reporters.
The 31-year-old Al Ittihad striker did not feature in Nigeria’s semi-final win over South Africa.
While she played the full 90 minutes against Algeria in the group stage, she was left on the bench for earlier matches against Tunisia, Botswana, and Zambia.
Now, the Super Falcons’ coaching crew is anxiously watching the clock, hoping the medical team can work wonders before Saturday’s showdown at the packed Olympic Stadium.
“We just pray she makes it,” Madugu said. “If she doesn’t, the rest of the squad will carry on. Even her support will mean a lot to the team.”
Ordega’s absence would be a blow, as Nigeria aims to lift their tenth WAFCON trophy, more than any other country in the tournament’s history.
Her pace, creativity, and experience have often turned key matches in Nigeria’s favor, especially on big occasions.
