Falcons, Ethiopia draw in Paris 2024 qualifier

Admin l Thursday, Oct. 25, 2023

ADDIS ABABA – In Addis Ababa, Nigeria and Ethiopia’s senior girls engaged in an intense battle that ended in a 1-1 draw, setting the stage for an intriguing rematch in Abuja next week.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade’s powerful shot from outside the box, six minutes into the second half, brought Nigeria level after Ethiopian girls had surprisingly taken the lead in the 6th minute through Birkie Amare’s corner kick.

With Asisat Oshoala leading the attack, Uchenna Kanu and Gift Monday operated on the wings, while Michelle Alozie shifted to left back to accommodate Nicole Payne at right back. Oluwatosin Demehin and Akudo Ogbonna anchored the defense, and in the absence of Christy Ucheibe and Halimatu Ayinde, Peace Efih joined Toni Payne and Ajibade in midfield.

During the tight first half, both teams struggled to create scoring opportunities. Oshoala had a chance from Payne’s cross, but she couldn’t capitalize.

After Ajibade’s equalizer, the Falcons gained control, and substitute Ifeoma Onumonu came close to putting Nigeria ahead in the 64th minute but was denied.

Payne and Onumonu combined for a golden chance in the 79th minute, but Oshoala once again missed the mark.

The Falcons believed they had secured a late win when Onumonu headed the ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the build-up.

Both teams will face each other again at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja next Tuesday, with the aggregate winner advancing to the third round, where they will meet the winner of the Cameroon/Uganda fixture.