The Super Falcons secured a 1-0 victory over South Africa in the first leg of the Paris 2024 Olympics final qualification round at the MKO Abiola Stadium on Friday evening.
Coach Randy Waldrum implemented several changes to the team, including Christy Ucheibe replacing Oluwatosin Demehin at center back and Chidinma Okeke filling in for the unavailable Ashleigh Plumptre at left back.
Uchenna Kanu and Chinwendu Ihezuo were also given starting roles in attack.
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Nigeria dominated the early stages of the game, with Ihezuo and Kanu both having attempts on goal. In the 41st minute, Ihezuo was fouled in the penalty area, leading to a penalty converted by Rasheedat Ajibade of Atlético de Madrid.
The second half saw the Super Falcons maintain their lead, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie making crucial saves to deny South Africa.
Despite late substitutions aimed at bolstering the attack, the game ended quietly with both teams struggling to create clear-cut chances. With this victory, the Super Falcons head into the second leg with a one-goal advantage, needing only to avoid defeat to secure their place in the tournament.
