Izuchukwu OkosiNigeria’s Super Falcons on Monday evening began the defense of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title on a disappointing note with a 2-1 defeat to archrivals South Africa.
The WAFCON 2022 Group C opening game at the Stade Moulay Al Hassan Stadium, Rabat failed to sparkle in the first half as it ended goalless.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe South Africans enjoyed about 60% of the ball possessions in the opening stages of the game.
Asisat Oshoala who was a shadow of her old predatory best was left isolated for most parts of the game and had only real genuine chance to put the nine-time African champions into the lead when her 49th left footed shot was gathered by Andile Dlamani.
The Bayana Bayana then grabbed two quick goals in the second half through the duo of Nicole Cesane and Jermaine Seoposenwe.
Rasheedat Ajibade however got a consolation for the Falcons deep into the added time but it was a short period of time to anticipate an unlikely fightback.
The Falcons will face debutants Botswana on Thursday in a game they must win to stand a chance of advancing in the tournament.
The semifinalists of the WAFCON will qualify automatically for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand while the fifth placed side will take part in an intercontinental playoffs.
Izuchukwu Okosi is a Nigerian sports and entertainment journalist with two decades of experience in the media industry having begun his media journey in 2002 as an intern at Mundial Sports International (MSI) and Africa Independent Television (AIT), owners of Daar Communications Plc.
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