Nigeria’s Super Falcons have set up a crucial clash with Morocco in the race for a place at the 2028 Olympic Games after thrashing Comoros 5-0 in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Tuesday.
The victory at the Remo Stars Stadium gave the 10-time African champions a 7-0 aggregate win in the second round of the African qualifiers, following their 2-0 triumph in the first leg.
Uchenna Kanu and Toni Payne scored twice each, while Christy Ucheibe converted a penalty as Nigeria turned their first-half advantage into a convincing victory.
The Falcons broke the deadlock in the 41st minute when Kanu capitalised on a defensive error before setting up Payne, who finished from close range.
Nigeria doubled their lead 13 minutes into the second half as Kanu headed home a cross from Folashade Ijamilusi.
Payne struck again in the 63rd minute after Blessing Okpe dribbled past two Comoros defenders and picked out the midfielder to extend Nigeria’s lead.
Kanu completed her brace three minutes later, connecting with another Ijamilusi delivery to make it 4-0.
Okpe then won a penalty after being fouled in the box, allowing Ucheibe to convert from the spot in the 71st minute and complete the rout.
The match was not without concern for Nigeria, as captain Rasheedat Ajibade suffered an injury in the 23rd minute.
The Falcons will now face Morocco in the next qualifying round, scheduled for early next year, as they pursue one of Africa’s two slots in the women’s football tournament at Los Angeles 2028.
Nigeria returned to Olympic women’s football at Paris 2024 after a 16-year absence and will be seeking consecutive appearances at the Games.
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