U-20 WAFU-B Girls Cup - Janet Akekoromowei nets brace as Falconets cruise past Ghana

Nigeria's Falconets began their U-20 WAFU-B Girls Cup campaign in Benin on a bright note, defeating Ghana’s Black Princesses 3-1.

Head coach Moses Aduku named a strong lineup, with Taiwo Afolabi returning after featuring with the Super Falcons in the World Cup qualifiers. Precious Oscar and Janet Akekoromowei were also handed starting berths, with Joy Igbokwe leading the side as captain.

As expected of a rivalry clash, both teams battled intensely for most of the first half. The Falconets, however, were handed an opportunity in the 35th minute after a Ghanaian defender handled the ball in the box. Akekoromowei stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to open the scoring.

Right on the stroke of halftime, Akekoromowei doubled Nigeria’s lead, reacting well to a ball played into the area and lifting a composed lob over the Ghanaian goalkeeper.

Four minutes into the second half, Sarah Nyarko pulled one back for Ghana from close range. The Black Princesses pushed for an equaliser, but the Falconets stayed compact and disciplined at the back.

With two minutes left in regulation time, Favour Chiamaka delivered a dangerous corner kick that sailed over goalkeeper Grace Andoh and into the net to restore Nigeria’s two-goal cushion.

The Falconets will now face Benin tomorrow as they aim to build on their strong start.