The scoring was opened in through an Alozie Chidi own goal, before Linda Mothalo doubled the leaded in the 17th minute with a penalty.

Gabriela Salgado netted just before the break. The Falcons struck back with a brace by Vivian Ikechukwu, before Mamello Makhabane scored the winner with a penalty.

The Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis, feels that they controlled the game.

“We were in control for most of the game, we played at the tempo we wanted to and also made them play at the tempo we wanted them to play. We controlled all aspects of the game.

“Into the second half, we discussed they would come, we needed to concentrate and make sure we put our foot on the ball, but we didn’t do that. We tried to calm it, the two from Nigeria goals came quickly – we made errors – and we played the way we should not have.

“But the players showed a lot of confidence and character to take the game back. We made some positional and tactical changes. Then it all came together again. We managed the game very well.

“The victory is not just for us here in Nigeria, it is for everyone back home in South Africa who have contributed to women’s football. The coaches have put in the hard work with the players.

“We wanted to test ourselves, but we need to now be consistent in what we do. Nigeria have been consistent over a number of years and we mustn’t forget they will be back.

“They have proven over a number of years they are the best on the continent and to be put in that same bracket we need to be consistent against the better teams.”

Banyana's focus will turn to the Cosafa Cup now.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport