Nigeria’s Commanding Start in WAFCON Qualifiers: A 5-0 Victory Over Cape Verde
In a spectacular display of skill and dominance, Nigeria kicked off their journey towards securing a spot in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a resounding 5-0 triumph over Cape Verde at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Thursday.
Uchenna Kanu and Esther Okoronkwo showcased their scoring prowess by each netting a brace, while Monday Gift contributed with a goal, propelling the Super Falcons to an emphatic victory over the Cape Verdean team.
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As anticipated, the record WAFCON holders initiated the game with a solid performance, and it didn’t take long for Kanu to break the deadlock, tapping in from close range just seven minutes into the match. Despite Cape Verde’s attempt to level the score, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie thwarted their efforts with a stunning save in the 16th minute.
The Nigerian team extended their lead nine minutes later when Gift capitalized on a goalmouth scramble, doubling the Super Falcons’ advantage. Rasheedat Ajibade narrowly missed a shot in the 33rd minute, maintaining Nigeria’s offensive pressure.
Kanu continued her stellar performance, converting a Toni Payne cross at the 45-minute mark, securing a comfortable 3-0 lead for the home side. Nigeria maintained their dominance in the second half, and it was substitute Esther Okoronkwo who added the fourth goal in the 66th minute from Esther Akudo Ogbonna’s cross.
Okoronkwo completed her brace eleven minutes later, sealing Nigeria’s impressive 5-0 victory. With the job well executed, interim coach Madugu Justine made strategic substitutions, bringing in Tochukwu Oluehi for Nnadozie in goal, and Chiamaka Okwuchukwu making her debut in place of Esther Akudo.
The second leg of the encounter is scheduled for Tuesday in the Cape Verdian capital, Praia. The overall winner of both fixtures will earn a coveted spot at the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco.
Thursday’s game marked Madugu’s third appearance as the interim coach for the Super Falcons, as Head Coach Randy Waldrum continues to be absent.
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