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Echegini thrilled to score winner over Waldrum’s Pittsburgh

Super Falcons star, Onyi Echegini, has expressed her satisfaction with scoring a goal against Pittsburgh’s head coach, Randy Waldrum, who gave her the opportunity to make her international debut with the Nigerian national team.

Echegini’s game-winning goal propelled the Florida State women’s soccer team to a 3-2 victory over Pittsburgh on Thursday at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Florida.

This match held special significance as Echegini faced off against Waldrum, with the Seminoles aiming to extend their unbeaten streak to 12 games.

Echegini and Waldrum had previously worked together on the Nigeria Women’s National Team. Waldrum, who took on the role of head coach in 2020, led the Super Falcons to an impressive performance at the World Cup.

Echegini was part of the historic squad that secured Nigeria’s only World Cup victory during the summer, defeating co-host Australia 3-2 and reaching the Round of 16.

Fast forward to October, and Echegini and Waldrum crossed paths once again, this time in Tallahassee, where the Seminoles faced the Panthers, with Deborah Abiodun also in the starting lineup for Pittsburgh.

Just three minutes after Jordynn Dudley’s goal, Echegini scored, tying her for the team’s lead in goals and marking her first goal against her former national team coach.

After the match, Echegini expressed her satisfaction with her goal, stating, “It always feels good when I can contribute to my team. It’s a nice feeling to score against my former coach in Nigeria, but honestly, I want to do whatever I can to help the team secure a win.”

Echegini’s goal proved to be crucial, as Pitt scored in the 81st minute. Without Echegini’s insurance goal, the game could have easily ended in a draw.

Pitt head coach Waldrum acknowledged Echegini’s effectiveness around the goal and regretted not closing down on her. He said, “She’s very skilled in front of the goal, but we didn’t mark her closely. We gave her space. Our defenders stayed two yards away and didn’t close her down. A talented player like her will take advantage if you don’t defend tightly.”

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