Super Falcons narrowly beaten by Olympic champions Canada but win post-game shootout 5-4

The Super Falcons stepped up their preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games with a high-profile friendly against reigning champions Canada at La Quinta Football Center Malaga on Wednesday evening, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Despite the omission of former Barcelona striker Asisat Oshoala, a strong-looking starting lineup took to the pitch, with starting berths handed to Chiamaka Nnadozie, Osinachi Ohale,  Chidinma Okeke,Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Abiodun Deborah,Toni Payne, Jennifer Echegini, Rasheedat Ajibade and Chinwendu Ihezuo.

In the closed-door friendly, the Canadians scored what proved to be the game-winning goal before the 20th minute mark. 

The Super Falcons searched for an equalizer in the second half but Canada's defence held strong and saw out a clean sheet. 

Coach Randy Waldrum's girls earned a morale-boosting 5-4 win over the Concacaf giants in the post-game penalty shootout, 

Nigeria's goalscorers in the shootout were Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, Toni Payne, Deborah Abiodun and Christy Ucheibe.

One of Canada's most experienced players, Aston Villa's Adriana Leon was the only player to miss from the spot in the shootout, blasting her kick over the bar. 

Nigeria will face three of the top ten ranked Fifa nations at the upcoming Olympic Games, opening group play against Brazil on July 25, followed by matches with world champions Spain on July 28 and Japan on July 31. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: X

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