The Super Falcons of Nigeria produced a dominant second-half display to defeat Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses 3-0 in the second of their two international friendly matches at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, on Monday.
Nigeria started the game brightly and nearly took the lead in the opening minute when captain Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a dangerous set-piece into the box. The Falcons maintained early pressure, with forward Joy Omewa also going close as the hosts looked to assert their authority.
Despite controlling possession and creating several openings, the nine-time African champions struggled to find the breakthrough. A gilt-edged chance went begging in the 13th minute when an effort was dragged wide with the goal at the mercy of the Nigerian attackers.
Gift Monday remained a constant menace to the Senegalese defence throughout the first half, while Omewa came agonisingly close in the 15th minute after rounding the goalkeeper, only to see her effort crash against the woodwork as the contest remained goalless at the break.
The deadlock was finally broken three minutes into the second half when Shukurat Oladipo delivered a pinpoint cross that Omewa met with a powerful header, giving Nigeria a deserved 48th-minute lead.
The Falcons continued to dominate and doubled their advantage seven minutes later. Omewa showed strength and composure to shrug off her marker before finishing clinically to complete her brace and put the hosts firmly in control.
Nigeria’s superiority was further rewarded in the 66th minute when Ajibade embarked on a surging run and provided a precise assist for substitute Asisat Oshoala, who calmly slotted home to make it 3-0 shortly after replacing Omewa.
The convincing victory capped an impressive outing for the Super Falcons, who combined attacking efficiency with defensive discipline. The performance provides further encouragement for head coach Justine Madugu and his team as they continue preparations for the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.
