The Super Falcons of Nigeria have kicked off their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign on a winning note, securing a 3-0 victory over Tunisia at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Sunday night.
The Super Falcons who were looking to make a winning start in their quest to lift the trophy for a record-extending 10th time got their goals from legendary striker Asisat Oshoala, WAFCON debutant Rinsola Babajide and Chiwendu Ihezuo.
The match began with a minute’s silence in honour of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away last week. Oshoala then gave Nigeria the lead with a fine header, converting a brilliant freekick from Babajide.
Nigeria continued to control proceedings and almost doubled their advantage when Oshoala set up Deborah Abiodun, but her effort was kept out by the Tunisian goalkeeper.
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Oshoala remained a constant threat, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade dancing through the Tunisian defence before Oshoala’s shot was blocked. Moments later, Rinsola Babajide doubled Nigeria’s lead with a well-taken strike inside the penalty area.
Just before the break, Ashleigh Plumptre thought she had added a third, but her header was disallowed as the referee ruled that she had obstructed the goalkeeper’s view.
Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu introduced three substitutions at the start of the second half, replacing Asisat Oshoala, Deborah Abiodun, and Rinsola Babajide with Esther Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe, and Chinwendu Ihezuo.
Despite the changes, Nigeria continued to dominate possession and came close to adding a third goal early in the second half, but Tunisian goalkeeper Soulaima Jabrani produced a stunning save to keep her side in the game.
Experienced defender Osinachi Ohale later missed a golden opportunity to put the result beyond doubt, failing to convert after a delightful scooped pass from Ashleigh Plumptre, who persistently pushed forward to support the attack.
Salma Zemzem thought she had won a penalty for Tunisia after going down in the box following a challenge from Osinachi Ohale. However, a lengthy VAR review overturned the decision, ruling that Zemzem had pushed Michelle Alozie in the build-up.
Shortly after, Esther Okoronkwo nearly extended Nigeria’s lead, but her shot rattled the woodwork after an impressive team move.
The Super Falcons eventually secured their third goal in the 84th minute when Esther Okoronkwo directed a header into the path of Chinwendu Ihezuo, who finished confidently to wrap up the victory and secure all three points for Nigeria.
With the win in the bag, the Super Falcons will head into their second group match against Botswana on Thursday with confidence. On the other hand, Tunisia will be looking to bounce back when they take on North African rivals Algeria.
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