The Super Falcons extended their losing streak to five straight games after suffering a 2-0 defeat at the hands of 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup champions, Japan in the team’s latest preparatory friendly game at the Noevir stadium in Kobe ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Abbeylivenetwork.com reports.
The last time Falcons won a match was in the quarter-finals of this year’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in July.
Also, it is now third consecutive wins for Japan over the Super Falcons in their four meetings.
The Falcons held the Japanese in the first half with some excellent play but capitulated in the second half.
That half had very few chances, but Leicester City fullback Ashley Plumptre could have given Nigeria the lead, but her fantastic free-kick came back off the post.
The Falcons had the brilliance of goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to thank, however, for keeping the team levelled at the break.
The host seized control of the game in the second half and pressed the Nigerians high in their half.
A deadlock was broken in the 64th minute after Tanaka brought down a floated set piece with her chest before slotting past Nnadozie.
And in the 68th minute Tanaka got her second as she converted from the penalty spot, after Ohale brought down a Japanese player who was through on goal.
Coach Randy Waldrum will be displeased with the losses to the United States and Japan, as the American coach will be vowed to focus on getting the team ready for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.
