The Nigeria Super Falcons will look to finish the job against Ethiopia when they return to Nigeria.
It was a case of mixed feelings from Nigerians after the Super Falcons avoided embarrassment during the Olympic qualifier against Ethiopia.
Nigeria narrowly escaped defeat after coming from behind to hold their hosts, Ethiopia, to a 1-1 draw in the first leg at the Abebe Sikila Stadium on Wednesday.
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The reactions from Nigerians were swift and passionate, with many expressing their disappointment in the team while some believed the Falcons were robbed.
Ethiopia vs Nigeria
Nigeria’s Super Falcons, celebrated for their remarkable success in African women’s football, faced a formidable and inspired Ethiopian side that pushed them to the brink.
The home side started brilliantly and took a shock lead in the seventh minute before Rasheedat Ajibade, known as the Jesus Baby or the girl with the blue hair, saved Nigeria’s blushes with an excellent equaliser in the second half.
While Nigeria survived the scare from their hosts, the manner in which it all unfolded left fans of the team with mixed emotions.
The outpouring of frustration was perhaps best summarised by the phrase ‘we were robbed,’ from one of the Nigerians who reacted on social media.
That reaction followed a late winner from Ifeoma Onumonu which was chalked off for offside. Replays left more questions than answers and fans believe Nigeria was robbed by the officials.
This sentiment reflects the collective feeling that the Super Falcons were expected to dominate and win but found themselves grappling with the resilient Ethiopian team.
Nigerians, known for their passionate support of the national teams, have high expectations of the Super Falcons and took to social media to make that known.
Here are some of the reactions from the fans as the Super Falcons look to fix up in the second leg.
While the initial reaction was one of frustration, it is imperative to note that the Super Falcons’ journey is far from over. The close call against Ethiopia serves as a reminder that the road to success is often paved with hurdles and how the team responds in the second leg slated for Abuja will ultimately define them.
Nigerians remain firmly behind the Falcons and will expect the team to complete the job at home in the second leg.
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