Nigeria’s Super Falcons sealed their place in the Paris 2024 Olympics after playing out a goalless draw against South Africa at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Falcons traveled to Pretoria to take on reigning African champions South Africa at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
They already secured a 1-0 win from the first leg in Nigeria, and they just needed to avoid a defeat in the second leg to nick the much coveted Olympic ticket.
Coach Randy Waldrum named the same lineup from the first leg, with Asisat Oshoala starting from the bench once again.
The first half was pretty balanced, with Nigeria and South Africa canceling out each other. The level of play was quite brilliant as both teams opted to play from the back rather than launch long balls from defense to attack.
However, very few chances fell to both sides, as both defenses were tight. Nnadozie was hardly called to action, as South Africa failed to fashion out clear-cut chances in the first half. On the other hand, the Super Falcons had one shot on target, as Ihezuo’s header from Ajibade’s cross was well saved.
South Africa were much better in the second half, but they were neutralized by the Super Falcons’ setup. They did have a good chance in the 70th minute, but Nnadaozie was at alert, as she saved Sinxolo’s strike.
The Paris FC shot-stopper made another good save in the 86th minute to keep Nigeria in control of the game.
More to follow….