The Super Falcons secured a 2-0 victory over Comoros in the first leg of their second-round tie in the 2028 Olympic qualifiers in Ikenne-Remo on Friday.
Although the match was played on Nigerian soil, it was officially designated as Comoros’ home leg. Nigeria dominated proceedings under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, with Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu finding the net in the second half.
Former U-20 captain Joy Igbokwe also made her senior international debut after being named in the starting line-up, where she anchored Nigeria’s midfield.
The Super Falcons created several scoring opportunities in the first half but were unable to break the deadlock. Toni Payne fired wide in the 11th minute before Rasheedat Ajibade hit the crossbar in the 26th minute following a pass from Payne. Glory Ogbona was unable to convert the rebound.
Nigeria eventually took the lead in the 48th minute when Gift Monday headed a cross into a dangerous area, allowing Alozie to score with a right-footed effort.
Kanu extended the advantage on the hour mark, heading home Jennifer Echegini’s corner to give the African champions a two-goal lead.
Eguavoen’s technical crew made three substitutions towards the end of the match. Janet Akekoromowei made her senior debut after replacing Payne in the 61st minute, while Suliat Abideen came on for Monday in the 69th minute to earn her first cap. Folashade Ijamilusi replaced Kanu during stoppage time.
Comoros, who advanced to the second round after defeating Sudan 30-0 on aggregate, struggled to match Nigeria’s intensity throughout the encounter.
The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday in Ikenne, with the winner on aggregate advancing to face Morocco in the third round of the African qualifying series.