Paris 2024 women's football qualifier: Five observations from Super Falcons' 4-0 rout of Ethiopia 

Nigeria advanced to the next round of the 2024 Paris Olympics qualifiers with a comfortable 4-0 victory over Ethiopia at the Moshood Abiola Stadium on Tuesday.

Ethiopia were outclassed by Nigeria, courtesy of goals from Uchenna Kanu, Asisat Oshoala, and a brace from Atlético Madrid  striker, Rasheedat Ajibade.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the game in Abuja.

1. Super Falcons shine bright in Waldrum's absence

Before the game against Ethiopia, there were concerns about the chances of Nigeria qualifying for the Olympics in 2024. 

The team's lackluster performance in Addis Ababa, following their impressive showing at the FIFA Women's World Cup, raised doubts about their chances of making it to Paris.

However, at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, the Falcons reassured Nigerians with a stellar performance against Ethiopia, even in the absence of Waldrum, the coach who guided them to the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Fans were delighted as the Falcons displayed dominance on the field.

2. Asisat Oshoala, Uchenna Kanu, and Rasheedat Ajibade sparkle for the Falcons

The duo of Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade showcased their talent on Tuesday against Ethiopia at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja. 

Both players, previously criticized for their lackluster performance in recent Falcons games, guided the team to victory against Ethiopia after the initial 1-1 draw in Addis Ababa.

Oshoala, who plays for Barcelona in Spain, was on target and provided two assists in the team's four goals. Meanwhile, Ajibade also made her mark on the game by scoring two goals, contributing significantly to the Falcons' impressive victory.

Uchenna Kanu also impressed with her performance on Tuesday, scoring a goal and providing an assist. 

3. Onumonu still struggles to make an impact for Nigeria

Despite getting the opportunity to start for Nigeria, Onumonu failed to impress. The 29-year-old, on Tuesday replaced Gift Monday, who also disappointed in the first leg against Ethiopia in the lineup. 

Onumonu, who has faced criticism for her performance with the Falcons, despite the chance, failed to impress and didn't contribute to any of the team's goals against Ethiopia.

In the end, the Gotham FC striker was substituted, for former Liverpool player Rinsola Babajide.

4.Rofiat Imuran grasps her opportunity

The former Falconets defender made the most of her chance to start for Nigeria, delivering an impressive performance against Ethiopia. Imuran earned her place in the starting lineup, replacing Nico Payne, who had started in the first leg in Addis Ababa.

While Nigeria had struggled to defend set pieces in Addis Ababa, they displayed a solid defensive performance on Tuesday, significantly reducing the number of shots on goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. 

Imuran played a brilliant role in bolstering the Falcons' defense, taking full advantage of her opportunity to start for the team. Unfortunately, she was later replaced by Nicole Payne at the Moshood Abiola Stadium on Tuesday due to injury.

5. Michelle Alozie returns to preferred position

In the first leg, fullback Michelle Alozie, was deployed out of her comfort zone. However, on Tuesday, she returned to her favored right-back position.

Alozie excelled in her usual role, showcasing her brilliance by maneuvering through the wings and displaying strong defensive skills.

Adeyemi Adewale

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