“We are not ashamed to lose” – Algeria coach upbeat after Ajibade’s double secures win for Nigeria’s Falcons

Algeria head coach Farid Benstiti has offered a positive outlook despite his team’s 2-0 defeat to Nigeria’s Super Falcons on Saturday, crediting Nigeria’s strength and acknowledging his young squad’s progress.

The Super Falcons, led by captain Rasheedat Ajibade, clinched victory with two impressive first-half goals at the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne-Remo.

Ajibade opened the scoring in the 24th minute, sprinting past Algeria’s defence to receive a well-placed pass from Oluwatosin Demehin before lifting the ball over advancing Algerian goalkeeper Amel Salah.

The Atletico Madrid forward struck again just before halftime, launching a powerful shot from 22 yards after a setup by Folashade Ijamilusi, sending the ball soaring into the top corner.

Nigeria continued to press, with Esther Onyenezide narrowly missing from close range in the 44th minute, while Ijamilusi forced two saves from Salah in the 66th and 90th minutes.

Algeria’s best opportunity came in the 75th minute when forward Gladys Ikene evaded Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie but sent her chip just wide of the post.

Reflecting on the match, Benstiti stated,

“We have a young team, and the players are trying to understand each other better with each passing game. We love this type of match that helps our telepathy and cohesion.”

He added, “Nigeria is a strong team globally, and we are not ashamed to lose to them. However, I believe we will have a better game on Tuesday because we have learnt some things here today.”

Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu also praised the team’s effort, particularly from the home-based players.

“We are in a rebuilding process, and I must say that a good number of the home-based professionals impressed me. Ajibade, as always, led from the front and gave us great balance going forward,” said Madugu.

“Now, we are looking forward to the encounter on Tuesday to build on what we have been able to do here.”

The Super Falcons, Africa’s top-ranked team, will meet 12th-ranked Algeria again on Tuesday, October 29, at the Onikan Stadium for the second leg of the international friendly.