Nigeria’s Super Falcons began their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign in style, defeating Tunisia 3-0 on Sunday.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that superstar striker Asisat Oshoala led the charge, scoring the opener and inspiring a dominant performance in the tournament opener.
Coach Justin Madugu named a strong starting eleven. Chiamaka Nnadozie manned the goalpost, with Osinachi Ohale and Tosin Demehin in central defence. Michelle Alozie and Ashleigh Plumptre operated as fullbacks, giving width and defensive stability.
The midfield trio of Rasheedat Ajibade, Halimatu Ayinde, and Deborah Abiodun controlled the center of the pitch. Upfront, Oshoala was supported by Omorinsola Babajide and Toni Payne.
Nigeria took an early lead in the 4th minute when Oshoala connected with a superb free-kick from Babajide, heading home powerfully to put the Falcons ahead.
In the 16th minute, she nearly doubled the lead, but defender Norhene Bettoumi made a crucial clearance as Oshoala prepared to shoot from close range.
Just before halftime, Babajide turned from provider to scorer, blasting a fierce shot into the net to make it 2-0.
Nigeria continued to press in the second half. Osinachi Ohale missed from close range during a goalmouth scramble, and moments later, she was lucky to escape punishment for bringing down Tunisia’s Salma Zemzem in the box.
Substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo added a third goal late in the match, calmly finishing past goalkeeper Jabrani to seal the 3-0 win.
This was Nigeria’s first-ever WAFCON victory over Tunisia, with their previous encounter ending 0-0 in 2018.
The Falcons will return to action on Thursday night against Botswana. A win could secure an early spot in the knockout stage.
With Oshoala back in form and the team showing promise, Nigeria looks ready to challenge for another continental title.
