The Nigerian Super Falcons have secured qualification for the 2024 Olympics, marking their return to the competition after a 16-year absence.
Under the guidance of Coach Randy Waldrum, the team clinched qualification on Tuesday following a goalless draw against South Africa’s Bayana Bayana, winning 1-0 on aggregate.
In the decisive second leg held in Pretoria, the Falcons demonstrated resilience in defense, thwarting all scoring attempts by the South African team.
Their journey to Olympic qualification began with a 1-0 victory over Banyana Banyana in the first leg at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, with Rasheedat Ajibade’s first-half penalty proving crucial.
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Despite South Africa’s efforts in the return leg, notable chances by players like Uchenna Kanu were repelled, thanks to the solid goalkeeping performance by Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Having reached the quarter-finals in the previous FIFA Women’s World Cup, this qualification marks a significant achievement for the Falcons, who had faced disappointment in previous Olympic qualifiers.
Their last Olympic appearance was in 2008, making their return to the women’s football event a momentous occasion. The upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris, France, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, 2024, now awaits the Nigerian Super Falcons.