The Super Falcons secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Algeria on Tuesday in the second of their two international friendly matches, with long-absent Folashade Ijamilusi shining with a hat-trick at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
True to coach Farid Benstiti’s words, the Super Falcons displayed more poise and confidence than in their first match in Ikenne-Remo on Saturday. The Algerians also found moments to exploit weaknesses in Nigeria’s defense, creating some scoring opportunities.
Ijamilusi, a former junior international, opened Nigeria’s account in the 12th minute by converting a corner kick and doubled the lead nine minutes later, capitalizing on a loose ball after Blessing Ilivieda’s shot rebounded off the crossbar.
The Algerian team, known as the Green Ladies, responded with heightened intensity and nearly cut down the deficit in the 39th minute after Nigeria conceded a penalty. However, Lina Boussaha missed the chance. Shortly after, Laura Muller struck a powerful shot, but Nigerian goalkeeper Rachael Unachukwu made a crucial save.
Despite these efforts, Ouassila Alouache broke through Nigeria’s defense in the 43rd minute, scoring Algeria’s lone goal of the two-match series.
Determined to reestablish their two-goal advantage, the Super Falcons—who had won the first match 2-0 with a brace from Captain Rasheedat Ajibade—pressed forward, and Gift Monday scored Nigeria’s third goal with a powerful header in first-half added time.
The thrilling second half saw only one additional goal, with Ijamilusi securing her hat-trick in the final minutes of the game, sealing a decisive win for the Super Falcons.
