In a thrilling encounter between the Super Falcons of Nigeria and Banyana Banyana of South Africa, it was the Nigerian side that emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win in the first leg of the final round of the 2024 Olympic qualifiers.
Individual performances often play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the match. As such, assessing the players' performances through ratings provides valuable insight into their contributions on the field.
From goal-scoring prowess to defensive resilience, each player's performance is evaluated to gauge their impact on the game.
In this analysis of player ratings, we delve into the standout performers and key moments that shaped the encounter between these two African football powerhouses.
Super Falcons secure 1-0 victory against Banyana Banyana in first leg of Olympic Qualifiers
Pre-Match Build-Up:
- High Stakes: Ahead of the match, both teams were fully aware of the significance of securing a positive result, with a place in the prestigious Olympic Games at stake.
- Coaches' Preparations: Super Falcons' Head Coach, Randy Waldrum, emphasized the importance of executing their game plan effectively, while South Africa's Desiree Ellis aimed to secure a favorable outcome to ease pressure in the return leg.
- Historical Significance: Despite Nigeria's rich history in women's football, including past success in the Women's World Cup, they have not qualified for the Olympics since 2008. Banyana Banyana, on the other hand, are aiming to build on their recent achievements, having reached the Round of 16 in the last World Cup.
Super Falcons vs Banyana Banyana: As it happened
It was captain Rasheedat Ajibade who emerged as the hero, securing a crucial 1-0 victory for Nigeria in the first leg of their 2024 Olympic Games final qualifying round tie.
The match, held in Abuja on Friday night, saw the hosts dominating early proceedings, with Chiwendu Ihezuo and Uchenna Kanu posing constant threats to the South African defence.
Nigeria's attacking prowess paid off when Ihezuo was fouled inside the box, resulting in a penalty awarded to the Super Falcons.
Ajibade calmly converted the spot-kick, sending South African goalkeeper Swart the wrong way and giving Nigeria the lead just before halftime.
Despite South Africa's attempts to level the score in the second half, with chances from Jermaine Seoposenwe and others, Nigeria's goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie stood firm, making crucial saves to preserve her team's lead.
Swart, too, displayed her skill between the posts, denying Nigeria's attempts to extend their advantage.
Ultimately, Nigeria held on to their slim lead, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated second leg clash in Pretoria next Tuesday.
With both teams eager to secure a spot in the Olympic Games, the upcoming encounter promises to be a thrilling battle between two of Africa's top women's football teams.
Super Falcons vs Banyana Banyana: Player ratings
With Nigeria ultimately clinching a 1-0 victory, let's delve into the player ratings for the match.
Super Falcons:
- Chiamaka Nnadozie (Goalkeeper) – 8: Made crucial saves to keep a clean sheet and secure the win for Nigeria.
- Osinachi Ohale (Defender) – 7: Provided solid defensive cover and contributed to maintaining Nigeria's lead.
- Michelle Alozie (Defender) – 7: Helped keep South Africa's attackers at bay with her defensive work.
- Chidinma Okeke (Defender) – 7: Put in a disciplined performance in defense and helped build attacks from the back.
- Christy Ucheibe (Midfielder) – 7: Controlled the midfield and distributed the ball effectively to initiate attacks.
- Jennifer Echegini (Midfielder) – 7: Worked tirelessly in midfield, providing defensive cover and supporting the attack when needed.
- Deborah Abiodun (Midfielder) – 7: Showed creativity and determination in midfield, contributing to Nigeria's attacking play.
- Halimatu Ayinde (Midfielder) – 7: Helped dictate the tempo of the game and provided stability in midfield.
- Rasheedat Ajibade (Forward) – 8: Scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot and led by example as the team captain.
- Uchenna Kanu (Forward) – 7: Posed a constant threat to the South African defense with her pace and movement.
- Chinwendu Ihezuo (Forward) – 7: Made valuable contributions to Nigeria's attacking play and won the penalty that led to the goal.
Banyana Banyana:
- Kaylin Swart (Goalkeeper) – 7: Made important saves to keep South Africa in the game and prevent further goals.
- Bongeka Gamede (Defender) – 6: Put in a solid defensive performance but struggled to contain Nigeria's attacking threats.
- Matlou Noko (Defender) – 6: Worked hard in defense but was unable to prevent Nigeria from scoring.
- Jermaine Seoposenwe (Forward) – 7: Showed flashes of creativity and threatened Nigeria's defense with her attacking runs.
- Dhlamin Karabo (Defender) – 6: Contributed to South Africa's midfield play but was unable to create clear-cut chances.
- Makhubela (Defender) – 6: Was unable to influence the game as desired.
- Hildah Magaia (Forward) – 6: Provided energy and industry in midfield but was unable to unlock Nigeria's defense.
- Mothlhalo (Midfielder) – 6: Showed glimpses of quality in midfield but was unable to make a decisive impact.
- Refiloe Jane (Midfielder) – 6: Put in a solid shift in midfield but was unable to create meaningful opportunities for South Africa.
- Ramalepe Lebohang Kgatlana (Forward) – 7: Was South Africa's most dangerous attacker and came close to scoring on several occasions.
This article was most recently revised and updated 12 months ago
