The Super Falcons of Nigeria asserted their strength with an impressive 5-0 triumph over Cape Verde in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match held in Abuja.
Uchenna Kanu’s early goals and Esther Okoronkwo’s impactful play ensured a dominant lead for the nine-time African champions, securing their place in the upcoming finals in Morocco next summer.
The game kicked off with Gift Monday’s 22-yard free-kick threatening to break the deadlock in the 4th minute.
However, Kanu seized an opportunity from a corner kick, slotting the opener past Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, Jacinta Rodrigues.
Despite attempts by Borges and Payne for Cape Verde,
Rodrigues managed to deny Rasheedat Ajibade’s shot. Moments later, Gift Monday doubled the host’s lead in the 25th minute.
Deborah Abiodun was fully in charge of the Nigerian midfield during the first half, while Kanu netted her brace just before halftime.
The Falcons continued their dominance post-break, with Okoronkwo extending the lead in the 67th minute and sealing a resounding victory with another goal in the 77th minute, capitalizing on a Rofiat Imuran cross.
With this commanding first-leg performance, the Falcons hold a significant advantage going into the second leg in Praia, Cape Verde’s capital, scheduled for December 5th.
