The Super Falcons claimed a hard-fought victory against Cape Verde, confirming their place in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 2-1 triumph at the Estádio Nacional de Cabo Verde in Praia on Tuesday.
Building on their impressive performance in the reverse encounter at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja last Thursday, the Nigerian side displayed resilience and determination, setting the stage for their advancement with a commanding 5-0 win.
Missing key players like star striker Asisat Oshoala and defender Ashleigh Plumptre, the Super Falcons entered the game under the leadership of Justin Madugu, seeking to replicate their earlier success.
Cape Verde, however, drew first blood with Racing Power striker Ivania Moreira netting an 8th-minute goal, putting the home team in the lead. Despite Nigeria’s relentless efforts, the Cape Verde side maintained their advantage, entering halftime with a solitary goal cushion.
The second half saw an intense Nigerian push, with Madugu making tactical changes, including bringing in Esther Okoronkwo. Despite Okoronkwo’s initial goal being disallowed for offside in the 55th minute, she persistently pursued a breakthrough.
The determined forward eventually found the net seven minutes later, leveling the aggregate score at five goals apiece.
As the game intensified, acting captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s efforts to secure the lead narrowly missed the target. Despite a spirited performance by players like Toni Payne and Okoronkwo, Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, Jacinta Rodrigues, proved resilient.
However, in the dying minutes of the match, Ajibade clinched the decisive goal in the 93rd minute, sealing the Falcons’ victory and confirming their spot in the forthcoming WAFCON tournament.
The hard-fought win showcased the Super Falcons’ perseverance and determination, securing their place among Africa’s top teams and setting the stage for an exciting campaign in the upcoming tournament.
