Why Oshoala is struggling with Super Falcons — Waldrum

Super Falcons head coach Randy Waldrum has explained the reason behind Asisat Oshoala’s sub par performances for the national team.

Oshoala has struggled to replicate her fantastic form for Barcelona in the color of Nigeria.

The 27-year-old forward endured a frustrating outing at the last African Women’s Championship in Morocco, pulling out of the tournament after just one game.

The former Arsenal striker however made a scoring return to the team when she netted in the 2-1 win over Haiti on Friday.

“An extremely talented player, a great person, a true pro. She carries a big burden. She plays for arguably the best club in the world and has done really well for them.

“So she’s the big star of our national team, people expect a lot from her and she puts a lot of pressure on herself, because she loves Nigeria and she wants Nigeria to be successful on the world stage,” Waldrum said.

On why she’s always struggling for form with the National team, the Coach explained that:

“I think people on the outside have difficulty understanding that it’s easier to play for Barcelona than it is your national team.

“She’s with her Barcelona teammates every day, they understand each other’s movements. The national team doesn’t get together very often and you have different players from camp to camp.

“But despite the difficulty and the pressure she’s under, she always shows her talent and professionalism with the national team, has a very positive influence on her teammates, and delivers on the field.”

Eyes will be on Oshoala once again when the Super Falcons start their FIFA World Cup campaign later this year.

The Africans will face Australia, Canada and Republic of Ireland in the Group phase.