Despite recent concerns stemming from the Falcons’ poor performance against the current African Champions, Waldrum remains optimistic about his team’s prospects.
The South African team has emerged victorious in their last two encounters with Nigeria, including a notable win on Nigerian soil two years ago.
“We’re focused on getting to Paris,” Waldrum said. “They understand the challenge that’s in front of them. It is time (to qualify for the Olympics after a long time).
“This team is generational, no disrespect to the other teams, the talent and the depth that is coming into the team, which we saw in Australia at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, against some of the best teams in the world.
“We can continue to move on and be a major player on the world stage. This team is special and we can be one of the best teams in the world.”
The stage is set for an intense battle as Nigeria prepares to host the first leg at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja this Friday, with the return fixture scheduled for Pretoria’s Loftus Versfeld Arena next Tuesday.
