The Super Falcons of Nigeria have qualified for the women’s football competition at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
In the last qualifying round, Nigeria defeated South Africa 1-0 overall to secure their spot in the Games for the first time since 2008.
At Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday, the Falcons managed to hold on to a sensible goalless draw, thanks in large part to a historic penalty kick by Rasheedat Ajibade in the 43rd minute of the first leg.
Randy Waldrum stuck with the starting lineup that secured the crucial victory at home on Friday.
Early in the game, the Falcons had the upper hand. They managed to hold onto the ball, and the South African onslaught hardly caused any problems for Nigeria’s temporary center-back duo of Osinachi Ohale and Christy Ucheibe.
Chiwendu Ihezuo was presented with a chance, but her header from a cross by Deborah Abiodun went wide.
With limited opportunities for either team, the game ended in a cagey midfield fight.
Before things became dangerous for Nigeria, Chimaka Nnadozie was a dominant presence in the air, collecting the crosses of the South Africans.
Nigeria survived for a crucial draw to guarantee a spot for Africa in Paris later this year.
For the fourth time, the Falcons will compete in the Olympics. They were eligible to compete in 2004; in 2000; and in 2008.
Paris, France is scheduled to host the 2024 Olympics from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
