Super Falcons break jink to qualify for Paris 2024 Olympics

Super Falcons of Nigeria tonight broke a 16-year jinx to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics at the expense of a spirited South Africa in Pretoria.

The Falcons held their hosts to a goalless draw to go through 1-0 on aggregate having won the first leg 1-0 in Abuja last week.

It will be the first time Nigeria will qualify for the Olympics since 2008.

In France, they are drawn in a tough-looking first round group that has world champions Spain, Japan and Brazil.

Tonight was a game of two halves – Nigeria controlled the first period, while the home team were a lot more dangerous after the break as they chased for a go-ahead goal.

The physicality of the Nigerians was a huge challenge for the reigning African champions, who struggled to get their passing game going.

Nigeria kicked off this second leg and it was not long before striker Chinwendu Ihezuo header connected a cross from Ajibade only for South Africa goalkeeper Kylan Swart to hold firmly.

Chiamaka Nnadozie of the Super Falcons was the busier of the two goalkeepers in the second half as she kept out the spirited South Africans time and again.

Substitute Toni Payne brought a new energy to Nigeria with her drives through the midfield.

In the closing minutes, Asisat Oshoala came on for the hard-running Ihezuo.

Super Falcons Starting XI:

Nnadozie – Okeke, Alozie, Ucheibe, Ohale – Ayinde, Abiodun, Ajibade (Captain), Echegini (Okoronkwo 69) – Kanu, Ihezuo (Oshoala 83)

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