Deborah Abiodun praised the Super Falcons’ solid 3-1 win over Ghana in Morocco.
The friendly match boosts Nigeria’s WAFCON confidence ahead of tough Group B fixtures next week.
Deborah Abiodun has expressed satisfaction with the Super Falcons’ 3-1 victory over Ghana’s Black Queens in a closed-door international friendly held in Morocco on Sunday. The match formed part of Nigeria’s ongoing preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which kicks off next week.
The Falcons, nine-time continental champions, delivered a commanding performance as Chiwendu Ihezuo, Asisat Oshoala, and Rasheedat Ajibade all found the back of the net. The win extended Nigeria’s unbeaten run to three matches, during which they have scored five goals and conceded just once.
Abiodun, who featured in the starting lineup, praised the team’s effort and highlighted the importance of facing a physical side like Ghana ahead of the tournament.
“It was a good training match, especially against a team like Ghana, who bring the physicality,” she said. “It’s very good for the team. This friendly is a step towards our main aim for this competition, which is to keep winning whether it’s a friendly or a competitive game.”
Abiodun also acknowledged the challenging weather conditions during the game but emphasized that the team remained focused on getting a positive result.
WAFCON Group B Battles
The friendly against Ghana served as one of the final tune-ups before Nigeria heads into their Group B fixtures at the 2024 WAFCON. The Super Falcons will face Tunisia on July 6, Botswana on July 10, and Algeria on July 13.
All three group opponents are North African sides known for their tactical discipline, and Nigeria’s coaching staff has emphasized the importance of using high-quality friendlies to build momentum and cohesion.
The latest result against Ghana is being viewed as a confidence booster, particularly as the squad aims to reclaim the continental title they last won in 2018.
Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade’s scoring form is another encouraging sign for coach Randy Waldrum, who has consistently rotated the squad to maintain fitness and tactical sharpness.
With the tournament approaching, the Super Falcons are looking to send a clear message that they remain a formidable force in African women’s football.
