Football / 2024 Women’s AFCON: Nigeria makes strong start with 3-0 victory over Tunisia
For their opening match in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria sent a strong message by securing a 3-0 victory over Tunisia. The Super Falcons gave their opponents no breathing space, striking as early as the 4th minute through the inevitable Asisat Oshoala, well set up by Babajide. This lightning start immediately set the tone for the match.
Despite this early setback, Tunisia did not collapse. Kamel Saada’s players tried to respond with better defensive organization and a more compact setup. Although they managed to hold off the Nigerian attacks for much of the first half, they conceded a second goal just before the break, with Babajide, who had provided the assist for the opener, doubling the lead.
After the break, the Tunisians returned with better intentions, trying to unsettle the Nigerian block. They had more possession and tried to build patiently, but Nigeria’s experienced defense stood firm. The pace of the game slowed, with both teams seemingly waiting for the other to make a mistake, without leaving themselves exposed.
As Tunisia continued to try to get back into the game, Nigeria sealed the result in the 84th minute through Desire Oparanozie Ihezuo, who had come on just moments earlier. This third goal confirmed the Super Falcons’ superiority and their status as serious contenders for the title. For Tunisia, however, this heavy defeat makes the rest of the tournament considerably more challenging.
