An early goal by former Super Falcons’ skipper, Asisat Oshoala, on Sunday set the Nigerian team on a 3-0 thrashing of Tunisia in the opening match of the Women African Cup of Nations currently ongoing in Morocco.
The team honoured the late Super Eagles’ goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, with a minute silence.
Oshoala put the Super Falcons ahead in the 4th minute with a header off Rinsola Babajide’s freekick with the former England international making it two in the 45th minute of the game.
Oshoala also wore a hand band in tribute to the late Super Eagles legend, as she returned to the team with a bang.
Making her WAFCON debut for Nigeria after representing England at youth level before switching allegiance in 2023, Babajide raced past two Tunisian defenders before unleashing a right-footed drive to the near post that left the goalkeeper with no chance to make it 2-0 in favour of the Falcons.
READ ALSO: NDLEA intercepts Saudi, UK-bound cocaine in lipsticks, documents
The 26-year-old winger used the special moment to pay tribute to late Liverpool striker Diogo Jota.
Babajide celebrated her goal in the same signature style the Portuguese forward was known for, in what was an emotional nod to the Anfield fan-favourite, who passed away on Thursday.
The goal not only marked a personal milestone for Babajide but also underscored her growing importance in the Super Falcons squad as they began their hunt for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
A goal by Ashleigh Plumptre also in the first half was chalked off by the referee for a foul on Tunisia’s goalkeeper as the first half ended 2-0 in favour of Nigeria.
Replacing goal scorer Oshoala in the second half, Chinwendu Ihezuo, confirmed the victory after scoring the third goal late in the second half for an opening day win for Nigeria.
