Captain Rasheed Ajibade’s goal in the 43rd minute secured a narrow 1-0 victory for the Super Falcons of Nigeria against their continental rivals, South Africa, in the first leg of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games football event qualifiers.
The match took place at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Friday.
Under the guidance of Randy Waldrum, the Nigerian team maintained their slim lead throughout the second half despite South Africa’s attempts to equalize.
The Falcons will now need to defend their advantage in the second leg scheduled for April 9 in Pretoria.
The victor of the tie will secure qualification for the Olympic Games in Paris.