Nigeria’s Super Falcons produced a dominant display to defeat the Black Queens of Ghana 3-1 in an international friendly on Sunday.
The match, played in Casablanca, served as vital preparation for both sides ahead of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Although Ghana created the game’s first real opening in the 17th minute, Doris Boaduwaa’s low strike failed to trouble the Nigerian goalkeeper. That early warning seemed to spark the Super Falcons into life, and their pressure was rewarded in the 34th minute when Chiwendu Ihezuo’s deflected effort broke the deadlock.
As the first half neared its conclusion, Nigeria doubled their advantage. Asisat Oshoala stepped up to calmly convert a penalty just before the break, extending her side’s lead. The momentum carried into the second half, with Rasheedat Ajibade adding a third goal just five minutes after the restart.
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Although Ghana responded with more urgency, they were denied a goal in the 55th minute after Evelyn Badu’s effort was ruled out for offside. Despite the setback, the Black Queens kept pushing, but the Super Falcons remained disciplined and dangerous on the counter.
Coach Justine Madugu made key substitutions in the 56th minute. He introduced fresh legs in Ifeoma Onumonu, Sikiratu Isah, and Esther Okoronkwo. These changes helped maintain Nigeria’s energy and shape, though they couldn’t increase their lead despite several promising chances.
Ghana eventually earned a late penalty in the 88th minute, which Alice Kusi converted to salvage a consolation. However, it was too little, too late, as Nigeria closed out a confident win against their regional rivals.
With this victory, the Super Falcons head into the WAFCON in high spirits. They face Tunisia next Sunday in their opening group game, while Ghana will aim to bounce back before the tournament kicks off.
Tags: Super Falcons, Ghana, Black Queens, #WAFCON2024, Alice Kusi, #SoarSuperFalcons, #MissionX, #GHANGA, Ifeoma Onumonu, Sikiratu Isah, Esther Okoronkwo, Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Chiwendu Ihezuo, Evelyn Badu.
