Nigeria defeated Mali 2-1 to claim bronze in the Wafu Women Tournament played in Abidjan, Ivory Coast on Saturday. After a disappointing showing against Ghana in the semi-final on Thursday, the Super Falcons impressed all and sundry on the day.
However, the Nigerians didn’t have a rosy start as they got punished for a defensive blunder by the 15th minute through Diarra Fatoumata, who drove home a solo strike.
The Falcons remained calm and continued with their construction, mostly from the right wing, with Ajibade Rashed and Tule Lilian providing great passes.
Uchendu Love equalised by the 21st minute after a couple of goal attempts. She made it double by the 42nd minute. Her initial effort was parried by Mali goalkeeper Fatoumata but Uchendu was on the right path and was able to hit ball back into the net to put Nigeria ahead 2-1.
The second half was mostly the affair of the Malians who were determined to take something home from the tournament.
However, the likes of Jegede Joy and Onogbosere Mary kept their goal safe across the remainder of the meeting.
Uchendu Love was named Woman of the Match.
The final of the Wafu Women Tournament will be played later in the day between host nation Ivory Coast and Ghana.
