Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade put on a scintillating display, netting twice to secure a convincing 2-0 victory for Nigeria over Algeria in an international friendly at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne.
Ajibade opened the scoring in the 24th minute, latching onto a precise pass from defender Oluwatosin Demehin.
In a moment of sheer skill, she surged past Algeria’s defenders and lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Amel Salah, putting Nigeria ahead.
Her second came just before halftime, when she received a well-placed ball from Folashade Ijamilusi and unleashed a stunning 22-yard rocket that left Salah helpless, sealing a two-goal lead for the Super Falcons.
The game showcased the talent of Nigeria’s young squad, with Esther Onyenezide nearly adding to the score in the 44th minute, missing narrowly from close range.
Ijamilusi also posed a consistent threat, testing Salah in the 66th and 90th minutes, but the Algerian goalkeeper stood her ground.
Algeria’s best opportunity came in the 75th minute, when forward Gladys Ikene found herself free in the Nigerian box.
However, her attempted chip slipped just past Chiamaka Nnadozie’s goal, denying the visitors a comeback chance.
Reflecting on the match, Algeria's head coach, Farid Benstiti, expressed pride in his young team’s effort.
“We have a young team, and each game helps us build cohesion and understanding,” Benstiti told the NFF.
“Nigeria is a powerhouse in women’s football, and we aren’t ashamed to lose to them. We hope to apply what we’ve learned for a better performance on Tuesday.”
Madugu says Super Falcons are rebuilding
Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu, meanwhile, praised the commitment and skill shown by his players.
“We are in a rebuilding phase, and many of our home-based players impressed me today.
“Ajibade, as always, led by example and added great balance to our attack,” Madugu said. “Tuesday’s game will be another chance to build on our progress.”
The teams will meet again on Tuesday, concluding the international break with the final leg of this friendly series in Ikenne.
