Nordic-based African players at Women’s World Cup
Nigeria is one of Africa’s three representatives in the competition
Twelve Africans playing in the Swedish and Norwegian football leagues will be in action during the FIFA Women’s World Cup next month in France.
In the squad of the African champions, Nigeria to face Norway, South Korea and hosts, France in Group A are seven players from the Swedish premiership.
They are defenders Osinachi Ohale of Vaxjo and Faith Ikidi Michael of Pitea.
Striker Anam Imo of Rosengard, midfielders Rita Chikwelu of Kristianstad, Ngozi Okobi of Eskilstuna, Ogonna Chukwudi of Djurdgarden and Halimatu Ayinde, also of Eskilstuna, are also part of the Super Falcons, led by Swedish coach Thomas Dennerby.
Defender Ngozi Ebere and midfielder Rasheedat Ajibade, respectively of Norwegian sides, Arna-Bjornar and Avaldsness are complete the contingent.
Cameroon will feature two players from the Norwegian league: forward Ajara Nchot of Valerenga and defender Augustine Ejangue who plays for Arna-Bjornar. The Indomitable Lionesses will meet Canada, New Zealand and Netherlands in Group E.
Midfielder Leandra Smeda of Swedish side Vittsjo is the only member of the South team from the Nordic region. Banyana Banyana is drawn in Group B against Germany, China and Spain.
