Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a 3-1 victory over Ghana’s Black Queens in their final friendly match before the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The match, played at the Lanoria Sports Complex in Morocco, showcased Nigeria’s strength and dominance, with key players like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade making significant contributions.
The game started with both teams pressing hard, but Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Chinwendu Ihezuo’s powerful effort took a heavy deflection off a Ghanaian defender and rolled into the net.
Although it appeared to be an own goal, Ihezuo was later credited with the effort as her shot was on target. Just before halftime, Nigeria doubled their lead from a penalty kick, with Oshoala calmly slotting the ball past Ghana’s goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan.
In the second half, Ajibade added a third goal for Nigeria with a neat strike that left the Ghanaian goalkeeper with no chance. Ghana thought they had pulled one back four minutes later when Evelyn Badu scored, but her effort was ruled out for offside. Despite being three goals down, Ghana continued to push and were awarded a penalty in the closing stages, which Alice Kusi converted calmly to make the final score 3-1.
This win gives Nigeria a significant boost ahead of their opening WAFCON match against Tunisia. The Super Falcons demonstrated their strength and preparedness for the tournament, while the Black Queens’ performance raises concerns about their readiness for the competition.
Ghana’s head coach, Kim Lars Bjorkegren, will likely reflect on their preparations and address areas needing improvement as they face a tough road ahead in their quest for a first-ever Women’s AFCON title.
The victory highlights Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football, with the Super Falcons being one of the most successful teams in the continent. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Nigeria and Ghana as they compete against top African teams.