Nigeria wrapped up their preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding 3–1 victory over rivals Ghana in a friendly played on Sunday at the Lanoria Sports Complex in Casablanca, Morocco.
The game marked the final tune-up for both sides ahead of the tournament’s kickoff on July 5.
After playing out a goalless draw with Portugal in their previous outing, the Super Falcons entered the match in high spirits. Head coach Justin Madugu fielded a strong starting XI featuring key stars like Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Deborah Abiodun.
With Chiamaka Nnadozie rested, veteran goalkeeper Tochukwu Oluehi took her place between the sticks. The defence line included Osinachi Ohale, Tosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie, and Ashleigh Plumptre.
The early exchanges saw both teams battling for control without creating clear chances. However, Nigeria took the lead in the 34th minute when Chinwendu Ihezuo’s shot took a heavy deflection off a Ghanaian defender and rolled into the net.
Although initially appearing to be an own goal, the strike was ultimately credited to Ihezuo as her effort was deemed on target.
Just before the break, Nigeria doubled their lead from the penalty spot after a Ghanaian foul inside the box. Oshoala stepped up and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it 2–0.
Nigeria maintained their momentum in the second half and added a third in the 51st minute through Ajibade, who capped off a swift attacking move with a clinical finish.
Ghana responded four minutes later when Evelyn Badu found the net, but her effort was ruled out for offside. The Black Queens continued to push and were eventually rewarded in the 88th minute with a penalty, which Alice Kusi converted to reduce the deficit to 3–1.
The Super Falcons held firm in the final moments to secure the win, which provides a timely confidence boost as they gear up for their opening WAFCON fixture against Tunisia on Sunday.