Olympic Qualifier: Falcons take slim advantage into second leg in Pretoria

Published on: 05 April 2024

The Super Falcons of Nigeria have taken a slim win against Banyaya Banyaya of South Africa in the first leg of the final round of the CAF Olympic Qualifier on Friday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nigeria edged South Africa 1-0 courtesy of captain Rasheedat Ajibade's goal late in the first half at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

After missed chances from Chiwendu Ihezuo, Uchenna Kalu for more than half hour of the game until the penalty call by the centre referee after 40 minutes.

Ihezuo was brought down by Noko Matlou inside the area for a penalty which was converted by Ajibade to give the hosts the lead at the end of the half.

Nigeria continued the momentum in the second half as Kanu came close to extending the lead but Kaylin Swart did well to deny the Falcons on 52 minute.

The visitors twice called Chiamaka Nnadozie to action and twice she responded with two great saves on 56 and 59 minutes.

There was another chance on 86 minute to double the lead, but goalkeeper Kaylin Swart denied the Falcons the chance to score.

It ended 1-0 as the Falcons take the slim lead to the second leg of the qualifiers which will be played in 4 days time at Loftus Versfeld, South Africa at 6:30pm Nigerian time.

Uche Dozie

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