Ashleigh Plumptre, Ifeoma Onumonu star as Super Falcons struggle in win against Lady Elephants

Super Falcons have Ashleigh Plumptre, Ifeoma Onumonu and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to thank for the 2-0 first leg win against Lady Elephants in Abuja on Friday.

With a few debutants in the line up, and without captain Asisat Oshoala, Super Falcons had to find a way past familiar foes at the Moshood Abiola Stadium.

The debutants, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Ifeoma Onumonu quickly impressed the fans with their top performances on the night.

Ifeoma Onumonu marked her first competitive appearance with the goals that gave Nigeria the bragging rights going into the second leg.

Esther Okoronkwo teed up Ifeoma Onumonu who fired Super Falcons up from close range in 21st minute.

Ifeoma Onumonu completed her brace with a cheeky lob in the 56th minute.

The Lady Elephants who played much better, controlled the game much better knocked on Falcons door but Ashleigh Plumptre and Chiamaka Nandozie stood firm.

In fact, the fans at the Stadium sang and praise the Leicester City defender for her role in the game.

Super Falcons were beyond lucky to get the win as they lacked creativity and looked clueless while their opponents looked assured and pressed hard.
Nigeria must avoid defeat in the second leg in Abidjan on February 23 to secure a ticket to Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.