Ajibade, Oshoala shine as Super Falcons secure 3-1 win over Ghana

Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered an impressive performance on Sunday, securing a 3-1 win over archrivals, the Black Queens of Ghana, in an international friendly match held in Casablanca.

Ghana had the first real opportunity of the match in the 17th minute, but Doris Boaduwaa’s low strike failed to find the target.

The breakthrough came for Nigeria in the 34th minute when Chiwendu Ihezuo’s effort was deflected past the Ghanaian goalkeeper, putting the Falcons ahead.

Moments before the break, Nigeria was awarded a penalty, and star forward Asisat Oshoala made no mistake from the spot, calmly slotting in the second goal to give the Super Falcons a comfortable halftime lead.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade made it 3-0 with a composed finish five minutes after the restart, tightening Nigeria’s grip on the game.

Ghana thought they had pulled one back in the 55th minute through Evelyn Badu, but her goal was ruled out for offside.

Head coach Justine Madugu rang the changes in the 56th minute, bringing on Ifeoma Onumonu, Sikiratu Isah, and Esther Okoronkwo for Oshoala, Osinachi Ohale, and Ihezuo.

Despite creating more opportunities, Nigeria couldn’t add to their tally.

Ghana managed a consolation in the 88th minute when Alice Kusi converted from the penalty spot.

Both teams will now turn their focus to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with Nigeria set to face Tunisia in their opening match next Sunday.