Super Falcons forward Joy Omewa announced herself in style on her Nottingham Forest Women debut, finding the net in a 5–1 defeat to Birmingham City Women in the Women’s Super League 2 on Sunday. 

Despite the heavy defeat, the Nigerian attacker showcased her quality, giving fans a glimpse of her potential impact this season.

Omewa, fresh from her move from Danish side Fortuna Hjørring, wasted no time making her presence felt. In the 45th minute, she latched onto a long ball from Chloe Mustaki, which deflected perfectly into her path.

With poise and precision, Omewa sidestepped her marker and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to restore parity just before half-time, sending the home crowd into a brief frenzy of hope.

Forest had fallen behind earlier through an unfortunate own goal by Georgia Brougham in the 22nd minute, but Omewa’s composed finish ensured her team entered the break level at 1–1.

The second half, however, belonged to Birmingham City. Wilma Leidhammar quickly restored their lead in the 47th minute, and Forest struggled under constant pressure.

Omewa came close again in the 54th minute, her left-footed strike blocked, before being replaced in the 64th minute.

Birmingham sealed the win with a rapid-fire hat-trick from Lisa Lindström, scoring in the 72nd, 75th, and 78th minutes.

Forest will aim to bounce back in their next fixture against Charlton on 8 February, while Omewa looks to continue building momentum in WSL 2. 

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: nottinghamforest.co.uk