Asisat Oshoala was on target as the Super Falcons opened their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON, campaign with an emphatic 3-0 win over Tunisia on Sunday.
Madugu fielded a strong lineup with Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal with Osinachi Ohale, and Tosin Demehin in central defence, flanked by Michelle Alozie, and Ashleigh Plumtre in the fullback positions.
In the midfield, Rasheedat Ajibade, Halimatu Ayinde, and Deborah Abiodun held sway while Asisat Oshoala led the line, ably supported by Omorinsola Babajide, and Payne Antionette.
Oshoala announced her return with a sublime header from Rinsola Babajide’s free kick to give the Super Falcons an early lead in the fourth minute.
Oshoala came close to doubling the advantage in the 16th minute, but defender Norhene Bettoumi was alert and diverted the ball as the forward was set to pull the trigger from Toni Payne’s cross.
Rinsola Babajide added the second goal for Nigeria with a powerful shot on the stroke of halftime.
The Super Falcons ended the first half with a deserved 2-0 victory.
Osinachi Ohale missed from close range as Nigeria chased the ball in a goalmouth scramble from a free-kick in the 62nd minute. At the other end, the veteran defender was fortunate not to be penalized after bringing down the lively Salma Zemzem in Nigeria’s vital area.
Substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo finished past Jabrani to make it 3-0 for Nigeria as Tunisia struggled to cope with the team’s quality.
The Super Falcons held on to seal their first-ever victory over Tunisia after their previous encounter ended 0-0 in 2018.
Nigeria will be back in action against Botswana on Thursday night.
