The Nigeria women’s national team, Super Falcons on Friday defeated the Lady Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in the first leg of the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) final qualifying round, thanks to Onumonu’s brace.
The Falcons were without regulars like Asisat Oshoala, Francesca Ordega and Desire Oparanozie.
Gotham FC forward, Ifeoma Onumonu scored in the 21st and 56th minute to give Nigeria an advantage heading into the return leg against the Lady Elephants next week in Abidjan.
The Super Falcons first put one past the Ivorian ladies in the 13th minute but was disallowed by a foul call by the centre referee, giving the Super Falcons a free kick instead.
Head coach, Waldrum handed Leicester City defender Ashleigh Plumptre her official international debut, who commanded her territory and gave a five-star performance.
The winner over the two legs will advance to the 12th edition of the AWCON holding in Morocco from 2nd to 23rd in July.
The tournament, will also serve as qualifiers for the next World Cup, where the semifinalists (4) earns direct ticket for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, and two (2) more teams will advance to the Inter-confederation play-offs.
MOLATsportgist 