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NFF 'needs to do better' for Super Falcons - Oparanozie
Former Nigeria forward Desire Oparanozie says the country's football federation (NFF) has "not done enough" to ensure its women's team remain ahead of their competition in Africa.
The Copper Queens and the hosts played to a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Rabat Olympic Stadium, with Banda netting the fastest goal in only 58 seconds after kick-off.
Speaking at the post-match presser, Banda says she did expect a tough clash against Morocco, but she is happy with the team’s dominance despite settling for a draw.
“I feel good, but I must admit it was a tough match against Morocco, but I remain proud of the team, and we only started giving them hope in the last minutes.
“Now headed to the next match, we have to focus until the end, and hopefully we get a win in the next game,’’ asserted Barbra Banda.
The Copper Queens will continue with their Group A campaign when they face Senegal at Stade El Bachir, Mohammedia Stadium on Wednesday night.
Banda says they will need to regroup and remain focused to help claim a win in their second match.
We will need to regroup as a team, fix small mistakes, otherwise I think we are good for the next game,’’ added Banda.
Banda says there is enough depth in the squad to help achieve their goal within the group stages and looks forward to seeing more players getting game time.
“I believe in everyone. I believe our bench is also full of good players, when they come on, they will bring something different,’’ she expressed.
Meanwhile, Copper Queen’s coach, Nora Hauptle believes the team’s game plan was well executed despite failing to secure a win, and she also praised both teams for an entertaining WAFCON opener.
“It was a tough but entertaining game. Congratulations also to Morocco for giving a good performance, and the atmosphere in the stadium was great. I think the game plan was executed and chances were created,’’ said Hauptle.
Issued on SABC Sport by Mpumi Manyisi | https://www.sabcsport.com/soccer/news/zambia-captain-barbra-banda-proud-of-team-performance-in-wafcon-opener
