By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade first half penalty proved decisive as the Super Falcons claimed a 1-0 win over African champions South Africa in Abuja on Friday night.
The Super Falcons dominated the 2024 Olympic Games final round qualifier but were thwarted by Banyana Banyana goalkeeper Kaylin Swart.
Chiwendu Ihezuo and Uchenna Kanu came close to breaking the deadlock in the early minutes but had their shots saved by Swart.
The breakthrough came four minutes before the break when Ihezuo was fouled inside the box by Noko Matlou.
The centre referee pointed to the spot after the incident and Ajibade slotted home sending Swart the wrong way.
The Super Falcons came close to doubling their lead in the 52nd minute but Swart made anither brilliant save to prevent the ball from going into the net.
Jermaine Seoposenwe had a shot saved by Chiamaka Nnadozie four minutes later.
Nnadozie had to be at her best again on the hour mark to deny the visitors.
The scoreline remain the same for the remainder of the game.
The two teams will clash again in the reverse fixture next week Tuesday in Pretoria.
