Mark Gleeson BBC Sport, South Africa

The Super Falcons are reigning African champions

Nigeria are again overwhelming favourites to represent the continent at the women's football tournament at the upcoming Olympic Games.

However the Super Falcons have to beat South Africa in the final qualifying tie before they can book their trip to Athens.

The two countries play the first leg of the tie at Pretoria's Caledonian stadium on Friday where Nigeria's Super Falcons are expected to continue their winning record against Banyana Banyana.

The second leg will be played on March 26 although the venue has yet to be decided by the Nigerians, who will host the return match.

Again, Africa will have just one representative at the women's tournament in Athens, which is restricted to just eight teams.

Unlike the men's event, it is not played at under-23 level but rather with full international sides.

Nigeria's women went to the last Olympics in Sydney but did not get anywhere near the medal podium.

The Super Falcons arrived in South Africa on Wednesday morning and are taking no chances with their team for the match.

Their squad includes former African women's Footballer of the Year Mercy Akide and her fellow American-based professional Florence Omagbemi, who will captain the side.

Banyana Banyana will be hoping to celebrate against Nigeria

Ismael Mabo also returns to coach the team.

He was at the helm of the side that won the 2000 African women's championship in South Africa.

South Africa have had the benefit of a two-week camp under coach Greg Mashilo.

Mashilo introduced sweeping changes to the team when he took over two years ago but has not been able to deliver any success.

In fact, South Africa's women's side have never qualified for a major international event.

Hosts Greece, Australia, Germany, Mexico, Sweden and the USA have already qualified for the tournament.

Only Africa and Asia are still to settle the identity of their representatives.