Super Falcons Icon Makes ‘Physical but Fun’ Statement About Copa America 2024

• Asisat Oshoala jokingly claimed Copa America stars played with cutlasses in their jerseys
• She made the light-hearted claim after watching Argentina’s Group A fixture against Chile
• The 29-year-old is currently based in the United States, where she plays for NWSL side Bay FC

Nigeria’s women’s football icon, Asisat Oshoala, cracked a light-hearted joke about the physicality of the ongoing 2024 Copa America.

The Super Falcons forward, who swapped FC Barcelona Women for Bay FC earlier this year, made the comment while watching Argentina’s second group game against Chile.

Argentina vs Chile: What was the scoreline?

The match ended in a one-nil victory for the holders, with substitute Lautaro Martinez scoring two minutes before the end to secure La Albiceleste’s spot in the knockout round with a game to spare.

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In the first half, chances were few and far between, but after recess, the reigning world champions upped the ante, piling pressure on Chile’s defence.

Veteran goalkeeper Claudio Bravo was called to action, making several crucial saves to keep the score goalless.

According to Mundo Albiceleste, despite Bravo’s heroics, it was Inter Milan captain Martinez who made the difference.

Copa America’s physicality on full display

One clear aspect of the match at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, was its physicality.

The teams committed a combined 21 fouls, with Gabriel Suazo and Mauricio Isla both receiving yellow cards.

Some argued that other incidents deserved cautions or even red cards, highlighting the intense nature of the South American championship.

What did Oshoala say about Copa America?

Oshoala, who was watching the game, was struck by the extreme competitiveness and physicality of both teams.

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She humorously concluded that the tournament is only for the “strongest,” quipping that Copa America players seem so tough they might as well have cutlasses in their jerseys.

The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year also implied that if she couldn’t match their physicality, it might be best to skip the tournament altogether.

“If you check these players wey dey play this Copa America pockets ehn, e sure me say cutlass dey inside their jersey cus omo …..if I no dey fit, just avoid the tournament,” she wrote on X.

Oshoala wins Champions League best goal prize

In an earlier report, Sports Brief highlighted Asisat Oshoala’s stunning bicycle kick for Barcelona against Benfica on matchday one, which has been named the 2023/24 UEFA Women’s Champions League Goal of the Season.

The Nigerian forward sealed the 5-0 victory for the Catalans, scoring the fifth goal in the group stage match on November 14 last year.