Super Falcons Hold Cameroon To a Draw In Olympics Qualifiers

In the first leg of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifiers, Nigeria’s Super Falcons managed to hold Cameroon to a goalless draw in Douala. This match marked the return of head coach Randy Waldrum to the team following the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Ashleigh Plumptre, who had previously played for the African champions in the World Cup tournament, also made a comeback. The Falcons are aiming to secure their first Olympic qualification since the 2008 Beijing Games, as they have missed out on the past three editions (2012, 2016, 2020).

Cameroon denied the Falcons a spot in the London 2012 Games after defeating them in a penalty shootout during the final round of qualifiers. In the recent match, Cameroon had a close opportunity to score in the 11th minute, but goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie prevented them from taking the lead. Toni Payne made an impressive run in the 28th minute but was unable to set up Asisat Oshoala for a goal. The Falcons thought they had scored in the 54th minute, but substitute Jennifer Echegini’s goal was disallowed for offside. In the 64th minute, Echegini assisted Oshoala, but the Cameroonian keeper made a good save.

The second leg of the qualifiers will take place on Monday, February 26, in Abuja. The winner between the Falcons and Cameroon will face either South Africa or Tanzania in the final qualifying round. South Africa is in a favourable position to advance after securing a 3-0 away victory against Tanzania in another match played on the same day