Nigeria’s Super Falcons will return to the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on Tuesday knowing that their two-goal advantage over Comoros provides a strong foundation but does not yet guarantee passage to the next round of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers.
The African champions secured a 2–0 first-leg victory on October 9 through second-half goals from Michelle Alozie and Uchenna Kanu.
However, their performance also revealed an area requiring improvement ahead of the return fixture: converting attacking dominance into goals.
Nigeria controlled much of the opening encounter but entered half-time without scoring despite creating several opportunities.
Rasheedat Ajibade struck the crossbar during the first half, while other attacking moves failed to produce the breakthrough.
It took until the 48th minute for Alozie to open the scoring before Kanu doubled the advantage in the 60th minute.
Those goals have placed Nigeria in control of the tie, but the second leg presents another examination of the team’s efficiency and concentration.
Interestingly, both fixtures are being played at the same Nigerian venue because Comoros do not have a stadium approved to host the international encounter.
That arrangement gives the Falcons familiar surroundings for both matches, although they must still complete the qualification process on the pitch.
Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen will also be looking to build on his opening competitive victory in charge.
His first-leg selection included former Falconets captain Joy Igbokwe, who made her senior international debut in midfield.
The involvement of younger players provides an additional opportunity to assess Nigeria’s squad depth during the qualification campaign.
For Comoros, the challenge is considerable. They must overturn a two-goal deficit against opponents who prevented them from scoring in the opening match.
Nigeria, meanwhile, need to avoid allowing their advantage to encourage complacency.
Progression would move the Falcons into the third round, where Morocco awaits following Congo’s withdrawal.
But the wider objective remains qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
For now, the immediate task is straightforward. Protect the advantage, improve the finishing and secure a place in the next round.
