AWCON 2022: Super Falcons beat Cote d’Ivoire 2-0

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have jumped into the driving seat of their Africa Women Cup of Nations qualifier after their 2-0 victory over Cote d’Ivoire.

The victory came in the first leg of their last round in the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations (AWCON) qualifiers.

In the match played at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja on Friday, Nigeria’s persistence allowed them to open the scoring in the 21st minute.

It was then that Esther Okoronkwo positioned Onumonu inside the penalty area to shoot the Super Falcons in front from close range.

Seven minutes later, Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie was put to the test when Zote Nina sent a shot toward goal, but she quickly saved it.

The Ivorians began to exert great pressure from the start of the second half in an attempt to equalize, but the Falcons were determined to extend the lead.

The team’s head coach Randy Waldrum sent forward Uchenna Kanu for midfielder Amanda Mbadinuji in the 55th minute to bolster their game.

A minute later, the American Onumonu, who was making her national team debut, latched on to a floating pass from another debutant.

The Falcons tried to record a more convincing victory with striker Gift Monday coming on for Okoronkwo in the 84th minute, but the Ivory Coast put up a solid defence.

The visitors looked to score a consolation goal thereafter, but France-based Nnadozie made impressive saves just as defender Plumtree ensured the hosts kept a clean sheet.

After the game, Coach Waldrum said he was pleased with the team’s performance.

“I think we had a good control of the game, so I’m very proud of the players.

“We have Nnadozie, making a great save at the end, keeping a clean sheet and we all know that is very important.

“We are also proud of this lady (Onumonu). This is his first opportunity to come to Nigeria and represent his country and he scored a brace.

“Ashleigh also gave a good account of herself and it was a really solid performance,” Waldrum said.

The coach also added that he was positive before the second leg in Abidjan on Wednesday.

The winners of the match will qualify for AWCON 2022 in Morocco in June.

NP/Mercy Chukwudiebere