Super Falcons Overcome Senegal With Returnee Goals From Oshoala And Payne

Nigeria’s Super Falcons kicked off their preparations for the forthcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a 2-1 victory over Senegal in an international friendly match played in Ikenne-Remo on Thursday.

Reports indicate that the nine-time African champions delivered a composed and dominant performance for much of the encounter, offering encouraging signs ahead of their title defence campaign in Morocco. Under the guidance of Head Coach Justine Madugu, the team displayed attacking intent and controlled possession from the early stages of the game.

The breakthrough came in the 32nd minute after Nigeria was awarded a penalty. Veteran forward Asisat Oshoala converted from the spot to hand the hosts the lead, marking her return to the national team with a goal after her last appearance at the 2024 WAFCON tournament.

Nigeria continued to dictate proceedings and extended their advantage before halftime when Toni Payne finished off a well-worked attacking move in the 43rd minute. Payne, who was also making her first appearance since the last WAFCON, made an immediate impact by finding the back of the net.

The Falcons maintained control for large periods of the match, restricting Senegal’s attacking opportunities while creating chances of their own. The visitors, however, reduced the deficit in the closing stages, scoring in the 86th minute to set up a tense finish.

Despite the late challenge, Nigeria remained resilient and secured the victory in what was the first-ever meeting between the Super Falcons and Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses.

The friendly served as part of both nations’ preparations for the upcoming continental tournament, with Nigeria continuing to fine-tune its squad ahead of the competition. The two teams are scheduled to face each other again on June 8 at the same venue as Madugu continues his assessment of players before the start of WAFCON.