By Harry Awurumibe, Editor Abuja Bureau
Former African champion Nigeria wrapped up her one week pre-FIFA Women’s World Cup training tour of Turkey on a good note as the Super Falcons on Tuesday afternoon thrashed hapless New Zealand 3-0 at Mardan Stadyum, Antalya.
A 34′ headed goal by ageless team captain, Onome Ebi off Toni Payne assist gifted Nigeria the first goal as the Africans held on to the lead till the end of the first half.
Nigeria added the second goal three minutes into the restart of the match courtesy of a new invitee, United States-based Jennifer Onyinyechi Echegini in 48′. It was an easy tap in after the ball bounced kindly on her part in the build up to the goal.
When it looked like the match was over, returning Super Falcons power-striker, Desire Ugochi Oparanozie scored the 3rd goal in 94′ just as the referee was getting ready to whistle for the end of the match.
It was a match Super Falcons Head Coach RandyWaldrum made three substitutions as he made early change when he pulled out striker Esther Okoronkwo for another striker Oparanozie in the 50′ of the game.
The American gaffer who may be trying out his striking force later replaced FC Barcelona women’s club forward Asisat Lamina Oshoala with Monday Gift in the 75′ while he pulled out midfielder Payne for Ngozi Okobi in the 82′.
Some of the highlights was the suspension of match for five minutes (68′ to 72′) after New Zealand’s most capped player Besty Hasset was injured and was taken off the pitch for further medical treatment.
Also, Waldrum for the first time in several matches kept faith with almost the line up that played against Haiti last Friday as Chiamaka Nnadozie stayed between the sticks with Yewande Balogun yet to get one minute action for the past two years plus she has been with the team.
Starting XI vs New Zealand:
1. Nnadozie
2. Echegini
3. Onome
4. Payne
5. Oshoala
6. Demehin
7. Ajibade
8. Ayinde
9. Imuran
10. Okoronkwo
11. Alozie
