Nigeria’s Super Falcons have secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Botswana at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Thursday evening.
The decisive moment came in the 89th minute, when Mexico-based striker Chinwendu Ihezuo slotted home the winner after connecting with a clever pass from Esther Okoronkwo. Ihezuo, who also found the net in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Tunisia, once again proved decisive off the bench.
Botswana showed early attacking intent, with Refilwe Tholakele forcing two strong saves from Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Despite sustained efforts from captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide, Nigeria found it difficult to break down a compact Botswana defence.
Ashley Plumptre and Ihezuo came close in the second half, but Botswana’s South Africa-based goalkeeper, Maitumelo Bosija, made a series of key saves to keep her side in the game.
Eventually, Okoronkwo’s incisive play carved open the Botswana backline, setting up Ihezuo’s late strike that sealed the win.
Nigeria will face Algeria in their final Group B fixture on Sunday, July 6, at the same venue in Casablanca.
Flying Eagles Hold Ghana to 1-1 Draw in WAFU B U20 Championship Opener
Meanwhile, in Ghana, Nigeria’s U20 men’s team, the Flying Eagles, opened their WAFU B U20 Championship campaign with a 1-1 draw against the host nation at the Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
Ghana took the lead in the 26th minute through their captain Musbau Azeez. Nigeria’s captain, Daniel Bameyi, received a yellow card seven minutes later for a rough challenge, as the Black Satellites dominated much of the first half.
The Flying Eagles improved after the break, pressing for an equaliser. A penalty appeal in the 66th minute was waved off, while Odinaka Okoro came close with a free kick in the 76th minute.
Nigeria’s breakthrough came in the 84th minute when Mohammed Abdulahi headed home from a corner to level the score and rescue a valuable point.
The Flying Eagles will next face the Young Cheetahs of Benin Republic in their second Group A fixture on Sunday.
