Two African teams have secured their spots in the Women’s Football Tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics: Zambia’s Copper Queens earned their place with a remarkable victory against Morocco in Rabat, while Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a second slot with a strong performance against South Africa in Pretoria.
Despite a disheartening 2-1 loss in the first leg against the Atlas Lioness at Ndola’s Levy Mwanawansa Stadium five days prior, hope reignited in the away game against Morocco as Zambian attacker Babra Banda rose as the heroine, securing victory with two crucial goals and securing the Queens’ ticket to Paris.
Barbra Banda’s opening goal in the 38th minute, followed by her expertly taken penalty kick in the 105th minute, propelled the Copper Queens to secure their spot in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with a 3-2 aggregate victory.
In the other matches, Nigeria preserved their 1-0 advantage from the initial leg in Abuja, ensuring their progression to the next stage with a goalless draw against South Africa in yesterday’s second-leg match in Pretoria. With a 1-0 aggregate score, the Super Falcons of Nigeria have advanced in the competition
The Super Falcons of Nigeria have earned their first Olympic Games qualification in 16 years, marking their return after competing in 2000, 2004, and most recently in 2008.
Zambia will be in Group B, alongside, Germany, Australia, and the USWNT whereas Nigeria will be in Group C against Spain, Japan, and Brazil.
The 2024 Olympics is scheduled to take place in Paris, France, from July 26 to August 11, 2024
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Story by: David Kwaku Dzaku | univers.ug.edu.gh
