The Super Falcons of Nigeria produced a dominant second-half display to defeat Senegal’s Teranga Lionesses 3-0 in their second international friendly match at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, on Monday, with Joy Omewa emerging as the star of the game with a brace.
After a fiercely contested first half ended without a goal, the nine-time African champions stepped up their intensity after the break to secure a convincing victory before their home supporters.
Nigeria started brightly and almost took the lead within the opening minute when captain Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a dangerous set-piece, but the opportunity went begging. The Falcons continued to dictate play, with Omewa and Gift Monday constantly troubling the Senegalese defence.
The hosts created several chances during the first half but failed to find the breakthrough. In the 13th minute, a golden opportunity was wasted with the goal at their mercy, while Omewa came close two minutes later after rounding the goalkeeper, only to see her effort crash against the woodwork.
The deadlock was finally broken three minutes into the second half. Defender Shukurat Oladipo delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and Omewa rose highest to head home and give Nigeria a deserved lead in the 48th minute.
The forward doubled her tally seven minutes later, showing strength and composure as she powered through the Senegal defence before calmly slotting the ball past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Nigeria’s dominance continued, and the third goal arrived in the 66th minute. Ajibade embarked on a brilliant run before setting up substitute Asisat Oshoala, who had replaced Omewa, and the former African Player of the Year made no mistake in finishing to put the game beyond Senegal’s reach.
The Super Falcons remained solid defensively throughout the encounter, comfortably protecting their lead while continuing to threaten going forward.
The victory caps an impressive performance from the Nigerian side and provides a significant confidence boost as they intensify preparations for the upcoming Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they will be aiming to defend their continental crown.
