We on the same level as France and Australia

The Super Falcons have had a poor preparation for the World Cup, but Payne believes they can measure up to their World Cup opponents

Super Falcons forward Toni Payne believes that the team is currently at par with France and Australia despite their struggles, Soccernet reports.

Nigeria are looking to perform well when the Mundial begins later in July. The Super Falcons have always been queens of the continent, with nine Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles to their name.

However, they have consistently faltered on the world stage, with their best finish coming in 1999 when they reached the quarterfinals.

Recently, there have been a lot of controversies surrounding the team, with coach Randy Waldrum opening up about the inadequacies of the Nigeria Football Federation.

There were also talks that the team would boycott their opening game against Canada, but team captain Onome Ebi put those talks to rest.

The Super Falcons were engaged in a friendly match against Queensland Lions, and they won 8-1. Following their victory, Payne, who scored one of the goals, believes the team is improving.

She also believes Nigeria can match some world powers when the World Cup begins.

“We are on the same level as France and Australia, and we are very confident. With the players we have here, we are ready to fight, Payne said per NFF TV.

“We are growing an improving our system every day with every training. Step by step, we are getting ready for our first game against Canada.”

Nigeria will trade tackles with Australia in their second group game on July 27th. In addition to being hosts, Australia are ranked 10th in the world while Nigeria are 40th.

Nonetheless, Randy Waldrum’s ladies would hope they get a positive result.