2023: Akide Tells Super Falcons Tactics To Defeat England

Former Super Falcons striker, Mercy Akide says the team must tame England forward, Lauren James in their 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup last-16 contest.

Akide reckoned stopping the Chelsea star will be vital to the Super Falcons claiming a place in the quarter-finals.

James has been one of the standout performers.

The forward has so far scored three goals and provided three assists for the Three Lionesses.

She has formed a formidable partnership with Lauren Hemp and Rachel Daly in England’s attack.

Akide, who played for Nigeria at three FIFA World Cups, stated that it is important for the Super Falcons to stop James from wreaking havoc against them.

“She [James] is very technical in front of goal,” Akide said.

“They cannot give her even a small inch, because she can manipulate the ball and she can strike it well too.

“She plays very gracefully. That is the thing that fascinates me just watching her. She makes football so easy and that is why our players have to mark her really tight,” Akide told ESPN.

England and Nigeria will clash at the Lang Park, Brisbane on Monday. The game will kick-off at 8.30am Nigerian time.