The Super Falcons of Nigeria took a significant step towards the next stage of the 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers after defeating Comoros 2-0 in the first leg of their second-round encounter in the African qualifiers on Friday.
The Super Falcons created several opportunities during the opening half but were unable to convert their chances into goals.
Rasheedat Ajibade came close to breaking the deadlock, only for her effort to hit the woodwork.
Nigeria continued to press forward, creating further openings as they searched for the breakthrough.
However, Comoros held firm defensively, and both teams went into the half-time break with the scoreline still goalless.
The deadlock was finally broken after the restart when Alozie put Nigeria ahead in the 48th minute.
Gift Monday headed the ball into the defender's path, allowing Alozie to finish from close range and give the Super Falcons the lead.
Alozie had another opportunity to increase the advantage in the 54th minute, but the Comoros goalkeeper produced a save to deny her effort.
Nigeria eventually doubled their lead in the 59th minute through Kanu.
Jennifer Echegini delivered a corner kick into the penalty area, and the forward finished to give the Super Falcons a two-goal cushion.
The victory gives Nigeria an important advantage heading into the second leg, with the team aiming to secure progression to the next stage of the African qualifying campaign.
Both matches are being hosted at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne-Remo as Comoros lack any standard football pitch in their country.. The return fixture is scheduled for Tuesday, October 13.
The Super Falcons will look to protect their advantage in the second leg as they pursue qualification for the women's football tournament at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Wale Adejumo
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