Nigeria’s Super Falcons have qualified for the Olympic Games after battling to a goalless draw against Banyana Banyana in Pretoria on Tuesday.
Needing to avoid defeat in the second leg after a 1-0 win in the first leg in Abuja five days ago, the Falcons held their own against a South African side seeking to get one over Nigeria.
Nigeria coach Randy Waldrum started an unchanged line-up from the first leg, and it paid dividends as the Super Falcons were able to hold South Africa whilst creating some chances to win the game.
Cagey start but Super Falcons hold strong
The excellent Ihezuo got Nigeria’s first chance in the 4th minute, but her weak header from Ajibade’s cross was safely gathered by Swart in goal for South Africa.
Uchenna Kanu also missed a few chances as the second half ended goalless.
It was always going to be a tough second leg, and it proved so as both teams went at it with the Olympics ticket at stake.
Nigeria were able to contain the pressure from the restart as Banyana Banyana pressed forward for a goal, but the Falcons' defence held firm.
South Africa stepped up the tempo, and Nigeria had to thank Nnadozie for keeping them in the game when she saved from Sinoxolo in the 69th minute with Banyana Banyana in search of the go-ahead goal.
No road for Banyana Banyana
Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum made some changes to try and swing the game in Nigeria’s favor as Toni Payne came in for Uchenna Kanu to add more bodies in midfield. Additionally, Jennifer Echegini made way for Esther Okoronkwo while Asisat Oshoala was a late sub for Chinwendu Ihezuo.
Despite late pressure from South Africa, Nigeria held firm to secure the draw and the ticket to represent Africa at the Women’s football event of the Paris Olympics.
It will be the Super Falcons‘ first appearance at the games since Beijing 2008.
Goalkeeper – Chiamaka Nnadozie
Defenders: Osinachi Ohale, Christy Ucheibe, Michelle Alozie, Chidinma Okeke
Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun, Jennifer Echegini (Esther Okoronkwo)
Forwards: Chinwendu Ihezuo (Asisat Oshoala), Uchenna Kanu (Toni Payne), Rasheedat Ajibade
