Nigeria robbed as controversial call denies Super Falcons in goalless draw against Cameroon

A disallowed goal marred the first leg of the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifier between Nigeria and Cameroon in Douala on Friday evening. 

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports it’s all to play for in the second leg after the first leg between the Super Falcons and the Indomitable Lionesses ended in a 0-0 draw. 

A very cagey affair saw Nigeria’s Super Falcons dominate away from home, creating better chances and having a legitimate goal harshly ruled out.

Juventus forward Joe Echegini came off the bench to score in the 47th minute and seven minutes later, making her presence left when she fired Nigeria ahead.

But the referee incorrectly flagged for offside, with replays clearly showing Echegini was onside when she netted what should have been the opening goal.

The contentious decision proved costly as the sides failed to produce any further goals. Echegini later teed up Asisat Oshoala for a gilt-edged chance, but the veteran striker missed the opportunity to grab a potentially vital away goal for Nigeria.

The controversial moment leaves the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Nigeria. But the Super Falcons will feel aggrieved after having a perfect goal chalked off, denying them a lead to take back home. 

The officiating error could come back to haunt them if Cameroon manages to score first in the second match.