AFCON 2025
The Super Falcons of Nigeria secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Comoros on Tuesday at Remo Stars Stadium, completing a 7-0 aggregate triumph to advance to the third round of the African qualifiers for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Toni Payne and Uchenna Kanu scored twice each, while Christy Ucheibe converted a second-half penalty as Nigeria delivered another dominant performance to progress comfortably after winning the first leg 2-0.
However, the victory was overshadowed by an early injury to captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who was forced off following a heavy challenge, raising concerns ahead of Nigeria’s next-round encounter against Morocco.
Payne and Kanu Lead Nigeria’s Attack
The Super Falcons dominated proceedings and eventually broke the deadlock in the 41st minute through Payne, who capitalised on a defensive error forced by Kanu’s pressing.
Nigeria returned from the break with greater attacking intensity, doubling their advantage in the 58th minute when Kanu headed home a precise cross from substitute Folashade Ijamilusi.
Payne struck again in the 63rd minute, finishing after Blessing Okpe’s impressive individual effort created the opportunity.
Kanu completed her brace shortly afterwards, meeting another Ijamilusi delivery with a powerful header to extend Nigeria’s lead.
Ucheibe rounded off the scoring from the penalty spot in the 71st minute after Okpe was fouled in the box, completing a comprehensive victory for the African champions.
Super Falcons Player Ratings
Goalkeeper
Chiamaka Nnadozie — 7.5/10
Had relatively little to do but handled the few threats that came her way confidently. Her organisation and composure helped Nigeria secure another clean sheet.
Defenders
Michelle Alozie — 8.5/10
One of Nigeria’s standout performers across the two legs. She combined defensive discipline with relentless energy down the right flank, providing a reliable attacking outlet throughout the match.
Christy Ucheibe — 8/10
Delivered a composed performance at the back and capped it with a confidently converted penalty. She remained calm and assured throughout Nigeria’s dominant display.
Glory Ogbonna — 7/10
Maintained defensive discipline and helped restrict Comoros to very few clear-cut opportunities.
Shukurat Oladipo — 7/10
Played her part in a well-organised defensive performance, helping Nigeria maintain control and preserve their clean sheet.
Midfielders
Toni Payne — 9/10
The standout performer and a strong contender for player of the match. She opened the scoring before adding Nigeria’s third goal with a clinical finish. Her movement, decision-making and composure were instrumental in breaking down Comoros.
Jennifer Echegini — 7.5/10
Provided balance in midfield, distributing possession efficiently and helping Nigeria dictate the tempo. Her work in central areas ensured the Super Falcons maintained control.
Joy Igbokwe — 7/10
Continued to show promise in senior international football with energetic pressing, tidy distribution and useful defensive contributions.
Forwards
Uchenna Kanu — 9/10
A decisive attacking presence. She forced the error that led to Payne’s opener before scoring twice with well-timed headers from Ijamilusi’s crosses. Her contribution across the tie underlined her importance to Nigeria’s attacking options.
Gift Monday — 6.5/10
Worked hard and helped create early opportunities but struggled to make a decisive impact in the final third. She was substituted at half-time.
Rasheedat Ajibade — 5.5/10
Started as captain but was forced off early after a heavy challenge. Her injury was the major concern of an otherwise comfortable afternoon for Nigeria.
Substitutes
Folashade Ijamilusi — 8.5/10
Made an immediate impact after replacing Ajibade. Her two precise crosses for Kanu’s goals demonstrated her quality in wide areas and added a new dimension to Nigeria’s attack.
Blessing Okpe — 8/10
An influential second-half introduction. She created Payne’s second goal with an impressive individual effort before winning the penalty converted by Ucheibe. Her direct running and attacking intent proved decisive.
