Comoros women’s national team head coach Youssef Abdallah has acknowledged the strength of Nigeria’s Super Falcons, insisting that his side’s primary objective in the African qualifiers for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games is to gain experience and improve.

Comoros lost 2-0 to Nigeria in the first leg of their second-round qualifying tie at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Friday.

Second-half goals from Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu secured victory for the nine-time African champions, giving Nigeria a two-goal advantage ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture.

Despite the defeat, Abdallah said his players were aware of the challenge posed by one of Africa’s most successful women’s national teams.

“We knew our opponent and understood that we were facing a very, very strong team,” Abdallah said.

“As I said at the beginning, during the first press conference, we came here primarily to grow and improve.”

The Comoros coach’s remarks reflect his team’s focus on development and international exposure as the island nation continues its efforts to establish itself in women’s football.

Comoros reached the second round after recording a commanding 30-0 aggregate victory over Sudan in the opening round of the qualifiers. However, the encounter against Nigeria presented a significantly tougher test against a side with extensive experience on the continental stage.

The defeat leaves Comoros needing to overturn a two-goal deficit in the second leg to keep their Olympic qualification hopes alive.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will aim to protect its advantage and secure passage to the third round, where the aggregate winner will face Morocco.

The Super Falcons will look to draw on their experience and maintain their momentum, while Abdallah’s side will need to improve defensively and make the most of their scoring opportunities.

The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, with a place in the third round at stake as both teams pursue qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.