The Super Falcons of Nigeria faced Ethiopia in the 2024 Olympics Games qualifier’s first leg, which took place at Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Despite being without their head coach, Randy Waldrum, the Super Falcons managed to secure a 1-1 draw, Footballrover reports
The match began with Ethiopia taking an early lead in the sixth minute of the first half when Birkie Amare exploited a disorganized Super Falcons defense.
The first half concluded with Ethiopia leading 1-0, despite the Super Falcons’ spirited efforts to make a comeback, led by Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala and Monday Gift.
In the 52nd minute of the second half, Rasheedat Ajibade, the stand-in captain, brought the Super Falcons back to life with a remarkable long-range strike from 25 yards, which found the roof of the Ethiopian team’s net for the equalizer.
The Super Falcons’ bench, under the guidance of Justin Madugu and Ann Chiejine, made some swift changes in the starting lineup in the second half.
Didn't end how we anticipated but the hard work continue ????????#SoarSuperFalcons | #ETINGA| #Paris2024 | #OlympicsQualifiers pic.twitter.com/0Y07r0cwjC
— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) October 25, 2023
Midfielder Rufiat Imuran and forward Ifeoma Onumonu replaced Gift Monday and Nicole Payne in the 60th minute.
Newcomer Rinsola Babajide made her debut for the Super Falcons in the 71st minute, substituting the attacking sensation Uchenna.
In the 80th minute, Asisat Oshoala was also substituted, making way for former Falconets star Opeyemi Ajakaye, who currently plays for Barcelona Women’s team.
The changes nearly paid off in the dying moments of the match when Ifeoma Onumonu’s header hit the Ethiopian net, but it was ruled offside by the referee.
The Super Falcons will host the Ethiopians in the second leg of the qualifiers for the football event of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, on Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
Meanwhile, in another first leg CAF 2024 Women’s Olympic qualifier, Banyana Banyana of South Africa faced Congo Democratic at Stade des Martyrs.
The match, played later on the same day, also ended in a 1-1 draw.
Be the first to comment on "2024 Olympics Qualifier: Ethiopia stun Super Falcons with Draw"