The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s women’s national team, have clinched their spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics after a tense goalless draw against South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in Pretoria on Tuesday.
With a 1-0 victory in the first leg in Abuja, the Super Falcons have made a triumphant return to the Olympic stage after a 16-year absence. Their last appearance was in Beijing in 2008.
In a desperate bid to overturn the deficit, South Africa gave their all, applying constant pressure from the start and forcing the Super Falcons to defend deep.
Nigeria’s defense held strong, though, and goalie Chiamaka Nnadozie made a number of important saves to lead the team. Nnadozie’s brilliant performance in the second half featured two saves to stop Magaia and a stunning one to stop Cesane.
On the other hand, Nigeria struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the second half. While they had a few chances in the first half, including a missed opportunity by Uchenna Kanu, they were primarily focused on defensive duties.
Despite the relentless pressure, the Super Falcons held their ground and secured a historic qualification. After their impressive performance in the recent Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, they will now have the opportunity to compete for honors in Paris.
