The Nigerian women’s national team, the Super Falcons, have secured a historic qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics after a tense goalless draw against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in Pretoria.
This result, following a 1-0 victory in the first leg in Abuja, marks the Super Falcons’ return to the Olympic stage for the first time in 16 years, with their last appearance dating back to Beijing 2008.
In a match filled with pressure and determination, the South Africans launched a relentless assault in a bid to overturn the deficit. Employing a high press from the outset, they forced the Super Falcons to defend deep.
However, Nigeria’s defence stood firm, anchored by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, who delivered a series of crucial saves. Nnadozie’s heroics included a spectacular save in the 70th minute to deny Cesane’s powerful shot, followed by another impressive stop against Magaia.
While Nigeria struggled to create clear-cut chances in the second half, they maintained resilience and determination, ultimately holding on to secure their historic qualification.
This achievement comes on the heels of their impressive outing at the recent Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, further solidifying Nigeria’s status as a football powerhouse on the global stage.
With their ticket to Paris confirmed, the Super Falcons are now set to compete against football giants Spain, Japan, and Brazil in Group C of the Olympics, scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
