Super Falcons first-timer with dual nationality, Chioma Okafor, has opened up on her tough decision to represent Nigeria over Malawi, revealing how long it took to make her mind up as well as the crucial factors that came into consideration, Footynaija.com reports.
Okafor was born in Malawi to a Nigerian father and a Malawian mother. The US-based forward pledged her allegiance to Nigeria earlier this year, prompting Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu to include her in the squad for the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
In a recent interview with AdemolaVictorTV, Okafor revealed that while it took her quite some time to ponder her options, the allure of potential opportunities for growth on offer with the Super Falcons was just too much to resist.
“It wasn’t an easy decision. I took a lot of time as well, honestly a couple of years thinking about it and I just felt like it is time for me to not make the easy decision that I always tend to make,” the 22-year-old forward said.
“And I knew that with what I want to do with my career, I needed the exposure, I needed to play with players that are better than myself. I just want to be in an environment that was very competitive and that looked more likely to happen on the Nigerian side given that they attend more international competitions like the Olympics and the World Cup.
“With time Malawi will get there but time is always ticking. I can’t just keep on waiting, I had to take the opportunity that I was given.”
Okafor is yet to feature at the WAFCON and has made the matchday squad just once due to injury. Now fit and ready to contribute, the onus falls on Super Falcons head coach Madugu to determine whether the young forward gets a debut appearance in the final.