The Super Falcons will host Algeria’s Green Ladies in the second leg of their international friendly today at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, with kickoff now scheduled for 2pm instead of the earlier advertised 4pm.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s first-half brace secured a 2-0 victory for the nine-time African champions in Saturday’s first leg at the Remo Stars Training Complex, Ikenne.
The Spain-based attacking midfielder opened the scoring in the 24th minute, capitalising on defender Oluwatosin Demehin’s pass to lob the ball over Algerian goalkeeper Amel Salah. She doubled the lead just before halftime with a spectacular 22-yard strike into the top corner.
NFF’s Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi Achor, explained that the kickoff time was adjusted to accommodate the Algerian delegation’s return flight on Qatar Airways.
The friendly is part of the Nigeria Football Federation’s rebuilding strategy for the Falcons following their Olympic qualification setback and the departure of coach Randy Waldrum.
Super Falcons’ coach Justine Madugu expressed satisfaction with the performance of the home-based players, including former U-17 stars Miracle Usani, Chioma Olise, and Goodness Osigwe.
“We are in a rebuilding process, and I must say that a good number of the home-based professionals impressed me. Ajibade, as always, led from the front and gave us great balance going forward,” Madugu said.
Algeria’s coach, Farid Benstiti, whose team’s best chance came through Gladys Ikene in the 75th minute, promised a stronger showing in today’s encounter.
“We have a young team, and the players are trying to understand each other better with each passing game. Nigeria is a strong team globally, and we are not ashamed to lose to them. However, I believe we will have a better game on Tuesday because we have learnt some things,” Benstiti said.
The first leg also saw chances for Esther Onyenezide and Folashade Ijamilusi, who were denied by impressive saves from goalkeeper Salah.
