***As Inter-continental Play-off commences
By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
It was mixed fortunes for the two African representatives in the 10-nation FIFA Women’s World Cup Inter-continental Play-off holding in New Zealand as Cameroon beat Thailand 2-0 while Senegal suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat in the hands of Haiti in the first of two matches to qualify for the final ties of the competition.
Two second half goals scored by Cameroon’s golden girl, Gabrielle Onguéné and assisted by Indomitable Lionesses star, Ajara Nchout in the 79′ and another in 81′ ensured that Cameroon will next Wednesday meet
Portugal in the final of Group A in a winner takes all clash at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, Auckland.
Elsewhere, Senegal disappointed themselves as the Africans were mauled 4-0 by lowly Haitian senior women’s football team at North Harbour Stadium in Auckland.
One goal in the closing stages of the first half broke the deadlock by Haiti as Karen Louis scored in the 45′ K. Louis, assisted by Sarah Jeudy.
However, Haiti went goals crazy with goals from Nelly Mondésir with assistance by Mary Dumornay in 54′. Rose Borgella made it three goals in 64′ and Borgella was later assisted by Louis to score the 4th goal in 65′
Haiti will also meet Chile in the final of Group B on February 22 at the same venue.
The four teams in Group C will start their campaign next week. They are Chinese Taipei, Paraquay, Papa New Guinea and Panama.
The Play-off will produce the remaining three slots to complete the 32-team 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final in Australia and New Zealand.
