Nigeria’s Super Falcons began their campaign for a place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games with a 2-0 victory over Comoros in the first leg of their qualifying tie at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Friday.
Defender Michelle Alozie and forward Uchenna Kanu scored second-half goals to give Nigeria a valuable advantage ahead of the return fixture.
After a goalless first half, Alozie broke the deadlock in the 47th minute, finishing from close range after a headed assist to reward Nigeria’s sustained pressure.
Kanu doubled the lead in the 60th minute, heading home from a well-delivered corner to strengthen the Falcons’ position in the tie.
The result came after Nigeria dominated much of the first half but struggled to convert their chances. Kanu had an early effort, while Alozie tested the Comoros goalkeeper.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade also struck the woodwork in the 26th minute, with Gloria Ogbonna unable to convert the rebound.
The victory marked a positive start for interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen, who was appointed to lead the women’s senior national team for the Olympic qualifying fixtures while the Nigeria Football Federation continues its search for a substantive coach.
Although Comoros were designated as the home team for the first leg, both matches are being played in Ikenne because the island nation does not have a venue approved for the international fixtures. The arrangement gives both sides the same venue for the two-legged contest.
The teams are scheduled to meet again at the Remo Stars Stadium on Tuesday, October 13, with the aggregate winner advancing to the next round of the African qualifying series. The winner of the tie is expected to face Morocco in the subsequent stage.
The Super Falcons, 10-time African champions, are seeking a second consecutive Olympic appearance after returning to the Games at Paris 2024, ending a 16-year absence. Qualification for Los Angeles will require them to negotiate a demanding series of African qualifying rounds.
Nigeria will now look to complete the job in the second leg and maintain their push towards the 2028 Olympic football tournament.
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