Super Falcons recorded their third consecutive win as they dispatched FIFA World Cup co-host, New Zealand 3-0 at the Mardan Stadyumu.
The former African Champions responded to doubts over their readiness for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
New Zealand have been in a poor run of form before the game, failing to win in their last 9 games, but Randy Waldrum and his girls still had their work cut out for them.
The Ferns are winless in 10games following the 3-0 defeat to Nigeri’s Super Falcons. Photo: Twitter (NZ_Football)
Jitka Klimková would have been proud of the Ferns as they started the stronger of the two teams.
They pinned the Super Falcons back in the opening 30 minutes and forced Chiamaka Nnadozie to make some important saves.
However, Nigeria offered a treat on the Counter and earned a corner from one of those.
Toni Payne sent in a beautiful cross that was met with a looping header from Onome Ebi to give Nigeria the lead against the run of play in the 34th minute.
The goal was the high point of the first half, as the teams returned to the locker room for half time.
Fueled by the goal, the Super Falcons came out all guns blazing and within four minutes they caught the Ferns on the counter, and this time it was Onyi Echegini that got on the end of the ball to extend Nigeria’s lead.
New Zealand tried to find an equalizer but failed to beat Nigeria’s resolute defense.
Desire Oparanozie was introduced on the hour mark, and got her name on the score sheet with the very last real action of the game – in stoppage time – to wrap up the victory.
FULL TIME! in Antalya 📍
🇳🇬Nigeria 3-0 New Zealand 🇳🇿
⚽@EBIONOME 34'
⚽ Jennifer Echegini 48'
⚽ @oparanozie9 94'We wrapped up in styles our international camp in Antalya 📍#SoarSuperFalcons| #NGANZL| #TeamNigeria| #FIFAWWCPrep @thenff
— NGSuper_Falcons (@NGSuper_Falcons) April 11, 2023
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