April 11, (THEWILL) – The Super Falcons of Nigeria secured a commanding 3-0 win over New Zealand in a thrilling friendly game played in Turkey on Tuesday afternoon.
The game started with an open first half-hour as both teams launched attacks on each other’s danger areas with long balls over the top. Nigeria’s best opportunity in the first half fell to striker Asisat Oshoala, but her low shot was deflected for a corner kick.
The Falcons utilised the resulting corner, and veteran skipper, Onome Ebi, rose highest to head the ball into the net. It was the 39-year-old’s first goal for Nigeria in four years and her third in all caps. Nigeria continued to display their prowess from set-pieces, and the goal boosted the confidence of the ladies, making them the better team of the first half.
After the break, the Super Falcons picked up from where they had left, and three minutes in, Jennifer Echegini scored her first-ever Falcons’ goal, doubling Nigeria’s lead. Despite FIFA ranking New Zealand 25th and Nigeria 42nd, the Falcons continued to dominate and looked more threatening throughout the game.
Although Nigeria lost some of their attacking edge after Asisat Oshoala was replaced, substitute Desire Oparanozie scored a third goal in stoppage time, securing a third victory of the year for Nigeria. It was her first goal in four years. The Super Falcons delivered an impressive performance to earn a morale-boosting win ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
