AWC: Falcons through to semifinals

The Super Falcons of Nigeria on Sunday qualified for the semifinals of the on-going Africa Women Championship after beating Ivory Coast 3-1 in the final group B match.

Nigeria came close to taking the lead in the 9th minute but Evelyn Nwabuoku’s effort off defender Ngozi Ebere hit the side of the net. A minute later, Ogonna Chukwudi scored to give Nigeria the lead.

Chances were coming in great measure for the Nigerian women who dominated their rivals with Stella Mbachu and Ngozi Okobi being constant threats to the Ivorian team.

Ebere would go on to add the second for Nigeria in the 42nd minute through a free kick while Mbachu took the game beyond the opponents with the third goal in the 75th minute.

But the Ivorians fought back in the closing stages of the game and were rewarded with a consolation goal scored by N’Rehy Tia Viho Ines in the 82nd minute.

Falcons coach Kadiri Ikhana praised the performance of his players saying the maximum points gained from three group matches were indication that Nigeria could retain the title.

He said, “It was very important for the team to get nine points from the group games and I am very happy that we got it. It was a very good performance from the team. They moved very well. Apart from that little error in defence that led to the only goal for our opponents, they played very well.”

Nigeria’s semifinals opponents are the Bayana Bayana of South Africa on Wednesday at the Nkoantoma Stadium, 5.30pm Nigerian time.

Ikhana said the next match would be difficult. “The match against South Africa will be another tough game but I think we have a good chance against them.”

Goal scorer Mbachu said her colleagues were mentally ready to confront the South Africans.

“I am very confident going into the semis. Everyone in the team is mentally prepared for the challenge and ready to give our best and retain the title,” she said.

Culled: Punchng