Mina Tanaka Scores Brace As Japan Beat Nigeria in International Friendly Battle

• Mina Tanaka was in great form on Thursday morning, 6 October, as she scored two goals in a win over Nigeria
• The match was an international friendly duel and Super Falcons missed the presence of their striker Asisat Oshoala
• Ifeoma Onumonu and Rasheedat Ajibade led the attack for the Super Falcons, but were unable to score against Japan

The Super Falcons of Nigeria suffered a 2-0 defeat against Japan in an international friendly match on Thursday morning, 6 October, played as part of their preparation for the World Cup.

Going into this friendly encounter against Japan, the Super Falcons were without Asisat Oshoala, with Rasheedat Ajibade named the captain of the Nigerian side.

They started the tie impressively with the duo of Uchenna Kanu and Ifeoma Onumonu combining well in front for the Super Falcons, a combination which almost led to a score in the opening five minutes.

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In the 12th minute of the match, Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made a good save to prevent Mina Tanaka from scoring.

How did the first half between Super Falcons and Japan end?

The first half ended goalless between the Super Falcons and Japan, even though the Nigerian side had the chance to take the lead.

Japan came out more aggressive in the second half and waited until the 64th minute, before scoring their first goal through Mina Tanaka.

Four minutes later, Tanaka scored her second goal via a penalty, according to the updates on Super Falcons' Twitter handle. The match ended 2-0 to Japan.

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Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Super Eagles star Zaidu Sanusi was in great form on Tuesday night, 4 October, scoring a stunning header in FC Porto's 2-0 Champions League win over visiting Leverkusen.

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Although the Nigerian and his teammates won the encounter, it was not an easy ride for Sanusi and his teammates, who had to wait until the second half before scoring.

Playing in front of their fans, FC Porto started the match firing on all cylinders. Despite the team's effort to score the opener against their opponents, Leverkusen's defence held out.

Porto boss Conceicao opted to introduce Sanusi in the 63rd minute - and that was the decision that turned the game on its head.