Super Falcons defender Josephine Chukwunonye was relieved that Nigeria came away with the 2018 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON) title following their triumph over Banyana Banyana of South Africa 4-3 on penalties after a scoreless 120 minutes.
It was the third successive win and ninth overall for the Nigerian girls.
The success was achieved despite the Falcons missing injured striker Desire Oparanozie. It was also against the backdrop of playing consecutive 120-minute sessions, four days after surviving a battling semi final against Cameroon.
The Super Falcons were made to sweat-literally and figuratively – as Banyana Banyana gave them a tough workout at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday night.
“It was a tough match,” Josephine Chukwunonye told Footballlive.ng after the game.
“We had a great opponent and they managed to create a balance in possession, looking for victory. We had control, patience and I think this was a good result for us at the end of the shootout.”
“To have a balance between patience and all-out speed is very beneficial. We had two big opponents.”
“Playing 120 minutes and at this rhythm was fantastic for women’s football in Africa. It was a spectacle.”
The former Rivers Angels defender was happy with her second AWCON after missing the previous edition due to injury.
“Winning my second AWCON title is a great moment for my career. It’s a moment I won’t forget.”
“I give glory to God for counting me worthy to be part of this team in Ghana.”
“Injury forced me to miss the 2016 edition. I’m back and better,” the versatile defender added.
Josephine Chukwunonye made four appearances for the Super Falcons at the 11th edition of the Cup of Nations.
