Michelle Alozie has defended the Super Falcons’ social-media activity, saying the team’s TikTok videos have helped build unity rather than harmed their focus. The Nigeria defender was named Woman of the Match after the Falcons’ 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Quick facts
- Nigeria defeated Zambia 1-0.
- Asisat Oshoala scored in the eighth minute.
- Nigeria played for more than 45 minutes with 10 players.
- The Falcons are third in Group C on three points.
Alozie handed the award to the entire squad, including the substitutes who took part in the game. She said all 15 players deserved recognition for producing the result after Nigeria lost a player.
“This belonged to the whole group,” Alozie said. “The 11 starters and the substitutes who entered all played their part, particularly after we went down to 10.”
The result carried extra weight after Zambia had demolished Egypt 6-0 in their previous outing, with Barbra Banda scoring four times. Nigeria had started the campaign with a 3-2 loss to debutants Malawi.
Oshoala broke the deadlock eight minutes into the match. Nigeria’s task became more difficult when defender Oluwatosin Demehin was dismissed six minutes before the interval, forcing the Falcons to protect their advantage with a numerical disadvantage.
Alozie began at right-back before switching to left-back after the break as Nigeria reorganised its defence. Her speed helped her contain Zambia’s wide players, while several important challenges contributed to her receiving the individual award.
She also underwent a doping test after the final whistle. Alozie confirmed the procedure but said it had not occupied her thoughts, again stressing that the performance was a shared achievement.
“I’m not sure I was the obvious choice for the award,” she said. “We all worked for it, and the team came through together.”
The defender also urged supporters to stop treating the squad’s online posts as a problem. She said the players enjoy making TikToks and use the activity as one way to strengthen their relationships away from matches.
“That is part of how we connect,” Alozie said, asking fans to relax and allow the squad to develop its chemistry in its own style. Asked if she would soon resume posting, she replied: “Possibly. I’m not sure. The fans can be a bit wild.”
Nigeria are third in Group C with three points. The Falcons will face bottom-placed Egypt in their final group fixture and can qualify for the WAFCON quarter-finals with a win, although they also need results in the other group match to fall in their favour.
