Falcons celebrate victory |. Credit: Legit.Ng
In a tightly contested Women’s Olympic Football Tournament qualifier, Nigeria edged out South Africa thanks to a penalty goal by captain Rasheedat Ajibade in the 42nd minute at the MKO Abiola National Stadium on Friday.
The match saw the nine-time African champions, Nigeria, lock horns with the current champions, South Africa, in a game that lived up to its billing.
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The decisive moment came when Chinwendu Ihezuo was brought down in the penalty area, setting the stage for Ajibade, who plays her club football in Spain, to confidently dispatch the ball past goalkeeper Kaylin Swart. Ihezuo, making her return to the team, proved to be a constant threat with her speed, although Nigeria struggled to capitalize on set-piece opportunities throughout the game.
The second half saw South Africa’s midfield trio of Linda Motlhalo, Refiloe Jane, and Nomvula Kgoale gaining the upper hand with their quick play and creativity.
However, Nigeria’s defensive duo, Osinachi Ohale, and Christy Ucheibe, along with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who made a critical save from Jermain Seoposenwe’s powerful shot, kept the South African attack at bay.
Nigeria introduced Esther Okoronkwo and Rinsola Babajide off the bench, hoping to extend their lead, but they found South Africa’s Swart in fine form, preventing any further goals.
With the first leg concluded, all eyes are now on the upcoming return match at Pretoria’s Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday.
With only a single-goal advantage, Nigeria remains cautious, understanding the tie is far from over.
The South African team plans to travel back to Johannesburg on Saturday morning, while Nigeria will depart from Lagos on Sunday night, setting the stage for a thrilling second leg.
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