2024 WAFCON: Deborah Abiodun wins Player of the Match against Cape Verde

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Nigeria midfielder, Deborah Abiodun emerged as the Player of the Match during Super Falcons’ 5-0 win against Cape Verde in the first leg of the final qualifying round of the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Thursday.

The University of Pittsburgh star played her first game for the team since she was sent off against Canada in the opening group game of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

She put up a fantastic display in the middle of the pack for the nine-time African champions to help her side to a comfortable win.

Abiodun took to her social media handle (X handle) to express her joy after receiving the player of the match prize.

“🙌Honored to receive the Player of the Match award! 🏆 Huge thanks to my teammates and the incredible support from fans.🌟 Let’s keep pushing together! This award is for all of us. 💙💪⚽ .” She posted.

Braces from Uchenna Kanu and Esther Okoronkwo with another goal from Gift Monday in between ensured a 5-0 win for Justine Madugu’s led side.

The result put the team a foot into the next WAFCON finals taking place in Morocco.

The return leg will take place on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 in Praia, Cape Verde capital.