ABUJA, NIGERIA — Nigeria’s Super Falcons beat Comoros 5-0 on Wednesday to advance in the Olympic qualifiers. But the victory was marred by an injury to captain Rasheedat Ajibade.
The match was played at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja. The Falcons dominated from the first whistle. They scored three goals in the first half and added two more in the second.
First Half Dominance
Nigeria took the lead in the 12th minute. Ajibade provided the assist for the opening goal. She was involved in the second goal as well. The Falcons scored their third goal in the 38th minute.
Ajibade was substituted in the 42nd minute. She appeared to be holding her hamstring. She was replaced by Gift Monday. The captain walked off the pitch without assistance. But she looked uncomfortable.
Second Half Goals
The Falcons continued their dominance in the second half. They scored their fourth goal in the 58th minute. The fifth goal came in the 75th minute. Comoros could not cope with Nigeria’s attacking pressure.
Ajibade’s Injury
The injury to Ajibade is a concern for the Falcons. She is the team’s captain and top scorer. She has been in excellent form for both club and country.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen spoke after the match. He said the extent of the injury was not yet known. He said Ajibade would be assessed by the medical team.
“We will wait for the medical report. She felt something in her hamstring. We hope it is not serious. She is very important to this team,” Eguavoen said.
What This Means
The win keeps Nigeria’s Olympic qualification hopes alive. The Falcons will play in the next round of qualifiers. But the potential loss of Ajibade is a major blow.
The team has struggled with injuries in recent months. Several key players have been sidelined. The Falcons cannot afford to lose their captain.
What Happens Next
The Falcons will await the results of Ajibade’s scan. The team will also prepare for their next fixture. The next round of qualifiers will take place later this year.
For now, the focus is on Ajibade’s recovery. The team will be hoping she returns quickly. Nigeria needs its captain.
