Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a resilient performance in Lisbon on Monday evening, playing out a goalless draw against Portugal in a pre-Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) warm-up encounter.
Despite arriving in Portugal less than 24 hours before kick-off, the nine-time African champions showed no signs of travel fatigue, matching the hosts stride for stride at the Estádio José Gomes.
Reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year, Chiamaka Nnadozie, was the standout performer, making a string of crucial saves to keep the Portuguese at bay. The first scare came early in the 6th minute when a misplaced back pass by Christy Ucheibe allowed Diana Silva a clear sight of goal, but the forward failed to capitalise. Minutes later, Nnadozie made a confident aerial claim, setting the tone for her commanding display.
Nigeria came close at the other end in the 9th minute when Francisca Ordega's clever cutback found captain Rasheedat Ajibade, whose swift turn and shot narrowly missed its target. Nnadozie was called into action again in the 24th minute, pulling off another vital save as Portugal piled on the pressure.
Towards the end of the first half, Ordega created another opening, but Rinsola Babajide’s final touch let her down with the goal in sight.
In the second half, Nnadozie produced three remarkable saves within a four-minute spell, denying Jessica Silva, Fatima Pinto and Andreia Norton in quick succession. Substitutes Ifeoma Onumonu, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Halimatu Ayinde brought renewed energy to the Nigerian side, helping the Falcons seize control of the latter stages.
Ordega remained a threat throughout and came close to scoring in the 64th minute, rattling the crossbar from range. Minutes later, Onumonu nearly found the breakthrough from another of Ordega’s pinpoint deliveries.
In the end, the Super Falcons impressed with a solid and stylish showing that stunned the home crowd. They will now shift focus to their next friendly against Ghana’s Black Queens on Sunday in Casablanca.
Nigeria begin their WAFCON campaign on Saturday, 6th July against Tunisia, also in Casablanca, as they set their sights on a record-extending 10th continental title.
0 Comments