AWCON 2016: Nigeria Super Falcons 2-0 Senegal Teranga Lionesses Agg 3-1
Nigeria’s Super Falcons put the potential distraction of the tussle for the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation by the Amaju Pinnick and Chris Giwa-led factions to earn a place at the African Women Cup of Nations to be hosted by Cameroon later this year, with a 2-0 (3-1 aggregate) win over the Teranga Lionessses of Senegal at the National Stadium, Abuja, yesterday evening.
Goals by midfielders Rita Chikwelu (36th minute) and Osarenoma Igbinovia (46th minute) sent the Falcons soaring to a 3-1 aggregate win over the Senegalese, following both teams’ 1-1 draw in Dakar last Friday.
The seven –time African champions fluffed a hatful of chances in the first half, with Arsenal FC of England new signing Asisat Oshoala looking a lot less sharp than her usual self and forward Desire Oparanozie forced to start from the bench as a result of the injury she sustained in the first leg.
Oshoala even failed to convert from the penalty spot after Ebere Orji was upended in the box, before Chikwelu connected a brilliant pass to put Nigeria in front in the 36th minute.
Igbinovia was at the right place to connect another brilliant pass from the right just a minute into the second half, to, somehow, settle the nerves of dignitaries and spectators who were on hand to watch the game.
The Senegalese, who had coach sent off in the 50th minute for dissent, sat back deep and incited their hosts to come attack them.
Nigeria will join Ghana, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Zimbabwe, Cameroon and two other countries for the 10th AWCON billed to be hosted by Cameroon, between November 19 and December 3.
