Solomon Dalung
Nigeria’s Youth and Sports Minister on Sunday congratulated the Super Falcons on their massive 6-0 victory over Mali in the opening group B game of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.
Four goals from Asisat Oshoala as well as a goal each from Uchechi Sunday and Fransesca Ordega put the Super Falcons in top position with three points and six goals.
In a statement by Nneka Anibeze, the Special Adviser to the minister on media and made available to NAN in Abuja,the minister said the victory was a sign that the team was ready to retain the cup.
“It’s a good start for the Super Falcons.
“Six goals in a game is heartwarming and a sign that the team is ready to retain the cup they won two years ago.
“I’m very happy for this great start in the competition” Dalung said.
The statement also said the Minister congratulated the National U-20 team the Falconets who defeated Spain 2-1 in their last group game of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Papua New Guinea .
The Falconets despite the win, however bowed out on goals difference following their 0-6 loss to Japan in their opener.
Nigeria, Spain and Japan ended the group stage with six points each but the Falconets scored fewer goals.
Japan and Spain advanced to the last eight.
It said Dalung praised the team for their determination and hard work.
” I congratulate you on your victory over Spain and a big thumbs up for Chinwendu Ihezuo who won the FIFA Live Your Goals Player of the Match award.
“Although you lost out on goals difference, you have shown that in future, you can conquer the world.
“I urge you not to be downcast because Nigerians at home watched and supported you.
“You played very well but the better team advanced to the next round.
“We hope that some of you will also gain promotion to the senior national team where you will be given the opportunity to fight for a shirt in the Super Falcons team”.
The Super Falcons take on Ghana’s Black Queens on Wednesday in their second group B match of the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations taking place in Cameroon.
