In the first leg of the Olympic qualifiers, Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a crucial 1-0 victory against South Africa’s Bayana Bayana at Abuja’s Moshood Abiola Stadium. The lone goal came from Rasheedat Ajibade’s 43rd-minute penalty kick after Chiwendu Ihezuo was fouled in the South African box. This win places Nigeria in a favorable position going into the return leg in Pretoria on April 9.
Despite missing key players like Ashleigh Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin due to injuries, as well as Asisat Oshoala starting on the bench after arriving late to camp, the Falcons displayed determined play. Uchenna Kanu’s attacking pressure challenged South Africa’s defense, with goalkeeper Kaylin Swart making notable saves.
The victory in this two-legged tie would grant one of Africa’s two slots for the women’s football event at the Paris Olympics, with Zambia and Morocco contesting for the remaining spot. Nigeria’s last Olympic appearance was in Beijing 2008. The 2024 Olympics will be held from July 26 to August 11 in Paris, France.
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