The Super Falcons of Nigeria have been eliminated from the race for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after suffering a 2-1 defeat to South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in the World Cup play-off at the Moulay Rachid Stadium on Thursday.
The defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of progressing to the inter-confederation play-offs, with the winner of the clash earning the opportunity to continue the qualification journey.
Both teams made a cautious start to the encounter, with the opening stages characterized by intense challenges and a closely contested battle for possession. Nigeria remained disciplined defensively as South Africa searched for an opening.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 56th minute when Thembi Kgatlana put Banyana Banyana ahead.
The forward finished a well-worked team move to give South Africa a crucial advantage.
Nigeria responded by making two changes in the 63rd minute, with Folashade Ijamilusi and Christy Ucheibe introduced for Francisca Ordega and Deborah Abiodun, who had both been booked.
The Super Falcons came close to restoring parity in the 74th minute when Uchenna Kanu produced a dangerous header, but the South African goalkeeper made an excellent save to push the effort wide for a corner.
South Africa then doubled their advantage in the 77th minute when Refiloe Jane’s effort found the back of the net after taking a deflection, leaving Chiamaka Nnadozie with no chance.
Nigeria continued to push for a way back into the contest and were eventually rewarded in the third minute of stoppage time when Christy Ucheibe converted from the penalty spot to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
However, the Super Falcons could not find an equaliser in the remaining minutes, suffering a 2-1 defeat and missing out on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification route.
Wale Adejumo
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