The Super Falcons began their 2028 Olympic qualification campaign with a 2-0 victory against Comoros in the first leg of their second-round tie in Ikenne-Remo on Friday.
Although the match was played in Nigeria, it was officially designated as Comoros’ home fixture. The result gives the 10-time African champions a strong advantage before the return match in Ikenne on Tuesday next week.
Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen named former Nigeria U20 captain Joy Igbokwe in the starting line-up, handing the midfielder her senior international debut. Nigeria controlled the game from the opening stages but initially struggled to turn their possession and attacking pressure into goals.
Toni Payne came close to opening the scoring in the 11th minute when she curled an effort narrowly wide after Nigeria combined effectively in the final third.
Payne was involved again 15 minutes later, creating an opportunity for Rasheedat Ajibade. Ajibade’s shot struck the crossbar, while Glory Ogbona was unable to convert the rebound.
Nigeria finally broke the deadlock three minutes into the second half. Gift Monday delivered a cross into the danger area and Michelle Alozie reacted calmly to score with a right-footed tap-in in the 48th minute.
The Super Falcons extended their lead on the hour. Jennifer Echegini sent over a well-placed corner and Uchenna Kanu reached the ball first, heading past the Comoros goalkeeper from close range.
The interim technical crew then used the remainder of the match to give opportunities to several emerging players.
Janet Akekoromowei came on for Payne in the 61st minute to make her senior international debut. Suliat Abideen replaced Monday in the 69th minute and also earned her first cap.
Kanu was substituted in stoppage time, with Folashade Ijamilusi introduced for the closing stages.
Comoros entered the second round after recording a 30-0 aggregate victory over Sudan in the previous phase, but they were unable to match Nigeria’s tactical control and sustained pressure.
The second leg will be played in Ikenne on Tuesday next week. The team with the better aggregate score will progress to the third round, where Morocco await in the five-round African Olympic qualifying series.