Algeria’s head coach Farid Benstiti maintained a positive outlook following his team’s 2-0 loss to Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Saturday, attributing the outcome to Nigeria’s strength and emphasizing his young team’s progress. Nigeria’s captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, led her side to victory with two impressive first-half goals at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne-Remo.

Ajibade opened the scoring in the 24th minute, latching onto a pass from Oluwatosin Demehin before chipping it over Algeria’s goalkeeper Amel Salah. Just before halftime, the Atletico Madrid forward scored again with a 22-yard strike after a setup by Folashade Ijamilusi. Nigeria continued their attack as Esther Onyenezide narrowly missed in the 44th minute, while Ijamilusi forced two more saves from Salah in the 66th and 90th minutes.

Algeria’s closest chance came in the 75th minute when Gladys Ikene narrowly missed an open shot, sending the ball wide of the post.

Reflecting on the game, Benstiti noted, “We have a young team, and the players are improving in their chemistry and cohesion with every match. Playing against a strong team like Nigeria only makes us better.”

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu also praised the team’s efforts, particularly from the home-based players, highlighting Ajibade’s leadership and contributions to the team’s balance. Looking forward, he added, “We are in a rebuilding phase, and this game has provided valuable insights for us to refine our strategies in the next match.”

The Super Falcons, Africa’s top-ranked team, will meet Algeria again on Tuesday, October 29, at the Onikan Stadium in the second leg of their international friendly series.