ALOZIE, KANU ON TARGET AS SUPER FALCONS BEAT COMOROS IN OLYMPIC QUALIFIERS

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By ‘Sefiu Ajape

The Super Falcons of Nigeria began life under interim coach Austine Eguavoen on a winning note, defeating Comoros 2-0 in the first leg of their third-round qualifying tie for the 2028 Olympic Games on Friday.

Second-half goals from defender Michelle Alozie and forward Uchenna Kanu secured the victory for Nigeria at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The Super Falcons dominated the early exchanges as expected but struggled to convert their chances due to wasteful finishing and a measure of bad luck.

One of the early opportunities fell to Kanu, whose effort struck the roof of the net in the 18th minute. Four minutes later, Chicago Stars FC defender Alozie unleashed a low shot, but the Comoros goalkeeper pushed it away for a corner.

In the 26th minute, Rasheedat Ajibade struck the woodwork in what could have been Nigeria’s opening goal, while Gloria Ogbonna’s effort from the rebound went wide.

The 10-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations champions continued to press for an opener, but Comoros held firm as the first half ended goalless.

Nigeria’s persistence paid off three minutes into the second half when Boston Legacy FC forward Gift Monday headed the ball towards goal, allowing Alozie to score from close range.

The Super Falcons doubled their advantage on the hour mark when Kanu headed home Jennifer Echegini’s corner kick.

Despite enjoying spells of possession in the remaining minutes, Nigeria maintained their two-goal advantage to secure a 2-0 victory.

Both teams will meet again at the same venue on Tuesday for the second leg. Friday’s encounter was designated as a home fixture for Comoros, also known as Les Coelacanthes.

The winner of the two-legged tie will face Morocco in the next round of qualifying for the women’s football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games.