By Samuel Olusegun Precious
Nigeria’s Super Falcons began their quest for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games with a 2-0 victory over Comoros in the first leg of their second-round qualifier at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, Ogun State on Friday.
Second-half goals from Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu secured the win for the 10-time African champions.
The fixture was officially Comoros’ home game, but both legs are being played in Ikenne because Comoros does not have a CAF-approved stadium.
The Super Falcons dominated the first half but failed to convert their chances. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade struck the crossbar in the 26th minute, while Toni Payne and Glory Ogbonna also missed opportunities as Comoros defended resolutely to force a goalless first half.
Nigeria broke the deadlock three minutes after the restart. Gift Monday headed a cross into the danger area, allowing Alozie to finish from close range in the 48th minute. The Falcons doubled their advantage on the hour mark when Kanu headed home Jennifer Echegini’s corner kick to make it 2-0.
The match was interim coach Augustine Eguavoen’s first in charge of the Super Falcons, with Joy Igbokwe handed her senior debut.
The victory gives Nigeria a two-goal cushion heading into the second leg, also scheduled for Tuesday, October 13 at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
The aggregate winners will advance to the third round of the five-stage African qualifying series, where Morocco awaits.
