Super Falcons coach, Randy Waldrum, has highlighted the challenging weather conditions that affected the first leg of their Olympic qualifier against South Africa.
Despite Nigeria securing a 1-0 advantage in the crucial fixture, Waldrum acknowledged the difficulties his team faced due to the extreme heat.
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Speaking about the match, Waldrum commended his team’s performance, noting that they maintained control for the majority of the game.
However, he admitted that towards the end, as the game became more direct, the weather began to take its toll, leading to some issues on the field.
“I thought we controlled the game. I thought maybe the last 10, 15 minutes when the game got direct, it was a bit of an issue,” Waldrum stated, reflecting on the team’s overall performance.
He urged observers to review the match to gain a better understanding of his assessment.
Addressing concerns about player substitutions, Waldrum explained that Chinwendu Ihezuo had to be substituted due to cramping caused by the oppressive weather conditions.
He emphasized that several players experienced similar difficulties, highlighting the physical toll of playing in temperatures reaching 97 to 98 degrees Fahrenheit.
“Playing in such extreme heat is very challenging and takes its toll on the body,” Waldrum remarked, emphasizing the adverse impact of the weather on player performance.
Despite the challenges faced, Waldrum remained optimistic about his team’s ability to adapt and perform under such conditions.
As Nigeria prepares for the crucial second leg against South Africa, Waldrum’s insights into the weather effects provide valuable context for the team’s performance and preparation strategies moving forward.
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