International friendly: Super Falcons clinch 4-1 victory over Algeria

By Tosin Omojola

The Super Falcons wrapped up their two-match friendly series with back-to-back victories over Algeria, securing a comprehensive 4-1 win at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Monday.

Former junior international Folashade Ijamilusi was the hero of the game, netting a hat trick to condemn the Green Ladies to a heavy defeat.

Farid Benstiti’s team started with greater poise and assurance compared to their first game in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday. The Algerian side created several opportunities in the Nigerian half early on.

Ijamilusi opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 12th minute from a corner kick. She doubled the lead nine minutes later, capitalizing on a rebound after Blessing Ilivieda’s shot hit the crossbar.

The Green Ladies remained undaunted and could have reduced the deficit in the 39th minute when Nigeria conceded a penalty kick, but Lina Boussaha missed from the spot. Two minutes later, Laura Muller’s powerful shot was saved by goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu.

However, Ouassila Alouache broke through the Nigerian defense in the 43rd minute to slot past Unachukwu for Algeria’s only goal of the two-match series.

Determined to maintain their lead, the Super Falcons, who won the first encounter 2-0 with a brace from captain Rasheedat Ajibade, intensified their pressure. Gift Monday added the third goal with a powerful header in added time of the first half.

An entertaining second half produced only one goal, with Ijamilusi completing her hat trick in the closing minutes, sealing a 4-1 victory for Nigeria.