The Super Falcons of Nigeria yesterday added special spicy to the democracy day celebration by thrashing Korea Republic two nil to resuscitate their dream of making the second round of the on-going FIFA Women World Cup in France.
The Nigerians lost their first game 0-3 to Norway and needed victory yesterday to remain in contention for the second round. That they did in fantastic fashion as an own goal by Korean defender, Kim Do Yong in the 29th minute set the stage for the Falcons’ victory.
Nigeria’s biggest star, Asisat Oshoala made it two when 18 –year old Okeke found the Barcelona star, which ran past a defender, beat the goalkeeper and slotted into the net from a rather tight angle. It was a magnificent goal.
The victory set the stage for a make or mar encounter on Monday against France, which result would determine the Falcons’ fate in the competition.
Coach Thomas Dennerby surprised many followers of his team when he chose to start former junior international, Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal in place of Tochukwu Oluehi and the 18-year–old goaltender repaid his trust with an assured performance that claimed her defenders.
Nigeria stands a chance of getting a good result against France if the attackers learn to make god use of the chances they create in matches.
Yesterday, the Falcons lost so many chances that would have blown the Koreans away just as they did against Norway in their first game.
Meanwhile, after the match, Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala was given the Player of the Match award after putting up a brilliant display for the Super Falcons in their 2-0 victory against Korea Republic at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup.
It was Oshoala’s first goal of the tournament but her second for the senior team in the World Cup.
Samson Oyedeyi
