Falcons thrash Kenya to reach AWCON semi final

Nigeria secured their passage to the semi-final of the ongoing 2016 African Women Cup of Nations in Cameroon after the Super Falcons defeated Kenya 4-0 in their last group game yesterday. Influential midfielder Ngozi Okobi, Faith Ikidi , Arsenal striker Asisat Oshoala and Desire Oparanozie were the goalscorers for the reigning champions as Florence Omagbemi’s side set their eyes on retaining their AWCON title.

The semifinal against South Africa comes up on Tuesday with the Nigerians tipped to overcome their Bayana Bayana counterpart thereby reaching their ninth final in ten editions of the competition.

Meanwhile, Chairman, Nigeria Football Federation technical committee, Chris Green has assured that the football body will pay the Falcons’ all entitled bonuses and allowances before November 29.

The latest assurance came on the heels of media reports suggesting a plot by the seven times winners threatening to boycott yesterday’s Kenya’s clash due to unpaid allowances.

The reigning African champions had defeated Mali 6-0 before earning a 1-1 draw against Ghana in two opening matches before yesterday’s victory against the Harambee Starlets to finish atop in Group B.

“The NFF [Nigeria Football Federation] has approved your money [bonuses and allowances],” Green told the players and officials via telephone during their breakfast on Saturday.

“When you see me [Chris Green] in Cameroon next week [before the semi-final], I will come with your money.”

Green is expected alongside the NFF president Amaju Pinnick for the Super Falcons’ semi-final clash with already through South Africa at the Limbe Omnisport Stadium.

The team is expected to earn $4,000 as winning bonus and $2,000 as a bonus for a draw aside preparatory and tournament camping allowances in Cameroon.