Super Falcons Qualify for Paris 2024 Olympics
The Super Falcons held hosts Cameroon in a 2024 Paris Olympics qualifier, securing their spot in the prestigious event. Tonight, the Super Falcons of Nigeria clinched qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics after a hard-fought battle against a determined South Africa in Pretoria.
The Falcons managed to hold their hosts to a goalless draw, advancing 1-0 on aggregate, having secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg in Abuja last week.
This marks Nigeria’s first qualification for the Olympics since 2008. However, their journey ahead in France won’t be easy, as they are drawn into a challenging first-round group that includes world champions Spain, Japan, and Brazil.
The match tonight was a tale of two halves – Nigeria dominated the first period, while the home team posed a more significant threat after the break in their pursuit of a crucial goal.
Nigeria initiated the second leg, with striker Chinwendu Ihezuo’s header connecting with a cross from Ajibade, only to be firmly held by South Africa goalkeeper Kylan Swart.
In the second half, Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was kept busy as she repeatedly denied the spirited South Africans.
Substitute Toni Payne injected fresh energy into Nigeria with her dynamic runs through the midfield.
As the game approached its conclusion, Asisat Oshoala replaced the hard-running Ihezuo.
The Super Falcons’ starting XI included Nnadozie – Okeke, Alozie, Ucheibe, Ohale – Ayinde, Abiodun, Ajibade (Captain), Echegini (Okoronkwo 69) – Kanu, Ihezuo (Oshoala 83).”
