Nigerian stars continued to feature prominently in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifying round over the weekend, through goals, assists and decisive performances, www.aclsports.com reports.
For Danish champions Fortuna Hjørring, Joy Omewa delivered the match-winning moment, scoring in the 58th minute to seal a narrow 1-0 victory over Young Boys of Switzerland. The forward was later substituted in the closing minutes after another strong outing, keeping the Danes on course for the group stage.
Over in Sweden, Anam Imo was also on the scoresheet for Rosengård, though her effort could not save the club from elimination after a 3-2 defeat to Belgium’s OH Leuven. The striker struck in the second half to give her side hope, but the comeback fell short. Midfielder Halimatu Ayinde completed the full match and was booked in stoppage time as Rosengård’s campaign came to an end.
In Italy, Rinsola Babajide featured in AS Roma’s emphatic 5-1 win over Sparta Prague. Coming on as a second-half substitute, the winger saw her effort saved by the goalkeeper before Marta Pandini pounced on the rebound to score. Roma’s victory sealed their passage into Round Three as they continue their push for group stage qualification.
The final round draw has now set up intriguing ties involving Nigerian players. AS Roma, with Babajide and compatriot Shukurat Oladipo, will face Portugal’s Sporting Lisbon, while Fortuna Hjørring, spearheaded by Omewa, are paired with Austrian side St. Pölten.
