2024 Olympic qualifier: Five observations from Super Falcons 1-0 win over Indomitable Lionesses 

Nigeria progressed to the final round of qualifier for the 2024 Paris Olympics with a victory over Cameroon. 

 

The Falcons defeated the Indomitable Lionesses 1-0 courtesy of a goal from Esther Okoronkwo. Nigeria will be facing either South Africa or Tanzania in the final round. 

 

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the victory in Abuja. 

 

1. Randy Waldrum implements two alterations; Oshoala sidelined

 

After the Nigerian Falcons failed to convert chances in Douala, Randy Waldrum made two changes to the lineup, with Jennifer Echegini and Esther Okoronkwo stepping in for Asisat Oshoala and Halimatu Ayinde.

 

The decision to bench Oshoala raised eyebrows among football enthusiasts in Nigeria, marking a bold and unexpected move. 

 

However, the decision proved decisive, with both Jennifer Echegini and Esther Okoronkwo making notable contributions in the opening goal. The

 

Former Barcelona striker Oshoala entered the game in the 60th minute, substituting Toni Payne.

 

2. Injury woe for Tosin Demehin

 

Tosin Demehin, the defender for the Super Eagles, sustained an injury during the victorious match against Cameroon at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.

 

The injury setback to the young defender presents a concern for Randy Waldrum as Nigeria gears up for the final leg of qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

 

Nigeria's potential opponents in the next round could be South Africa or Tanzania. The reigning Africa champions, South Africa, emerged triumphant in the first leg with a 3-0 victory over Tanzania.

 

Demehin was substituted by Halimatu Ayinde in the 41st minute.

 

3. Deborah Abiodun shines in midfield

 

Deborah Abiodun showcased an impressive performance in midfield for Nigeria during the match against Cameroon. The young midfielder displayed remarkable composure and quality on the ball.

 

She effectively dictated the pace of the game and provided defensive stability for Nigeria by neutralizing several of Cameroon's attacking efforts.

 

4. Contentious referee call

 

Namibian official Ndemugwanitha Twanyanyukwa officiated the clash between Nigeria and Cameroon in Abuja. She was assisted by Eveline Augustinus, Olivia Amukuu and Vistoria Shangula.

 

The center referee's decisions came under scrutiny during the Nigeria versus Cameroon match in Abuja.

 

In the first half, the referee made a controversial call when a Cameroonian defender handled the ball, but instead of awarding a penalty, the referee awarded a corner kick in favor of the Falcons.

 

5. Enganemben Annie's aggressive conduct results in red card

 

Enganemben Annie, wearing jersey number 14 for the Cameroonian team, was shown a red card for unsportsmanlike conduct during the final moments of the game.

 

Annie received the red card for punching Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

    

Adeyemi Adewale

 

 

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