The Super Falcons of Nigeria have triumphed over Cape Verde with a 2-1 victory at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde in Praia, securing their place in the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
In a pulsating encounter, the Nigerian women’s team showcased their resilience and determination, overcoming the absence of key players to emerge victorious. The Cape Verdean side, undeterred by their 5-0 defeat in the previous fixture at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, opened the scoring with an 8th-minute goal courtesy of Ivania Moreira, the Racing Power striker.
Undeterred by this setback, the Super Falcons relentlessly pressed for an equalizer throughout the first half. Despite their efforts, the Cape Verdeans held firm, maintaining their solitary goal advantage as the teams headed into halftime.
The second half witnessed a spirited onslaught from the Nigerian side, led by coach Justin Maduagu, who made a strategic substitution, introducing Esther Okoronkwo in place of Uchenna Kanu. The change bore fruit when Okoronkwo, the UD Tenerife forward, unleashed a solo effort to level the score in the 55th minute, adding to Nigeria’s commanding aggregate lead.
Okoronkwo’s relentless pursuit continued as she posed a constant threat to the Cape Verdean defense, nearly setting up a goal for Toni Payne, who unfortunately failed to beat the opposition goalkeeper, Jacinta Rodrigues. The pressure intensified as acting captain Rasheedat Ajibade came agonizingly close to securing the lead, narrowly missing the target.
Amidst this gripping display of skill and determination, the Super Falcons finally broke the deadlock in the 93rd minute, with Ajibade delivering the decisive goal to clinch the hard-earned victory.
The resolute performance of the Nigerian team and their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity have not only secured their spot in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations but also exemplified their commitment to excellence on the international stage.
The Super Falcons’ remarkable journey in the quest for continental glory serves as a testament to their indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication, inspiring a new generation of football enthusiasts across the globe.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from Media Talk Africa.