Olympics 2024: Nigeria on Brazil's level - Super Falcons star declares

Toni Payne and Super Falcons at the World Cup. (Photo Credit: Imago)

Olympics 2024: Nigeria on Brazil's level - Super Falcons star declares

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 15:14 - 15.07.2024

Nigeria Super Falcons will return to the Olympics for the first time in 16 years and will kick off their journey against Brazil.

Super Falcons midfielder Toni Payne is talking tough ahead of Nigeria’s Olympics 2024 return against Brazil in Paris. 

Nigeria will return to the Olympics for the first time in 16 years, and they will kick off their journey against South American giants Brazil.

Super Falcons star unfazed by Brazil in Olympics 2024 opener

The Super Falcons secured their place at the 2024 Olympics in Paris by defeating South Africa in the qualifying round, with an aggregate scoreline of 1-0.

Ahead of their opener against the Samba girls, midfielder Payne says while the Brazilians are a good team, they are on Nigeria’s level.

Toni Payne in action for Nigeria at the World Cup.
Toni Payne in action for Nigeria at the World Cup.

"Brazil, it's going to be a tough team, they are very talented but I think as Nigeria we are at the level. So, it's going to be a good match," said an excited Payne in a video posted by the team on social media.

American coach Randy Waldrum will lead Nigeria's charge for glory, as they make their first appearance at the Olympics since 2008.

Toni Payne says Nigeria is on the same level as Brazil.
Toni Payne says Nigeria is on the same level as Brazil.

The Super Falcons have been drawn in a formidable Group C, alongside Spain, who are making their Olympic debut, two-time silver medalists Brazil, and London 2012 silver medalists Japan.

Despite the daunting task ahead, the Nigerian side, currently in Seville, Spain for their pre-Olympic preparations, are eager to make history and clinch the country's first-ever Olympic gold medal in women's football.

Payne, who has been a stalwart for the Super Falcons, is particularly looking forward to the challenge. 

"As the team gets together, it feels like it's tournament time again, obviously being at the World Cup - that was such an amazing experience. So, being able to compete again at the world stage with this team is such a good opportunity. I am excited."

The Super Falcons stars are preparing for Paris 2024.
The Super Falcons stars are preparing for Paris 2024.

The Super Falcons' quest for glory in Paris will begin on July 24th, when they take on Brazil in their opening group stage clash.

In a related development, Payne has announced her departure from Primera División de la Liga de Fútbol Femenino side Sevilla, where she has been a key player for the past six seasons. 

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The midfielder made 177 appearances for the club, scoring 30 goals and providing 24 assists.

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