Nigeria’s Super Falcons were held to a goalless draw by Algeria’s Lady Fennecs in their final Group B fixture at the 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Sunday, securing a spot in the quarter-finals where they will face Zambia’s Copper Queens.
Despite dominating possession and creating multiple chances, the Falcons were unable to break through a well-organised Algerian defence led by goalkeeper Chloe N’gazi Boumrar. The result also marked a historic moment for Algeria, who qualified for the WAFCON quarter-finals for the first time.
Head Coach Justin Madugu rotated his squad, making eight changes from the side that edged Botswana 1–0. The starting line-up featured Chinwendu Ihezuo, Ifeoma Onumonu, Jennifer Echegini, and veteran forward Francisca Ordega.
Ordega was particularly lively in the first half, nearly setting up a goal with a dangerous cross. The Falcons pressed for a winner in the second half through Rasheedat Ajibade, Esther Okoronkwo, and Echegini, but their efforts were thwarted by Algeria’s solid defence.
Nigeria will now prepare for a high-stakes quarter-final showdown with Zambia on Friday.
Meanwhile, in the WAFU B U20 Boys Tournament, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles staged a strong comeback to defeat Benin Republic’s Junior Cheetahs 4–1 in their second group game.
After conceding a 24th-minute free-kick goal by Junior Olugbade, the Flying Eagles levelled before halftime through Mohammed Abdullahi. The second half saw Nigeria take control with goals from Ezekiel Kpangu, Imrana Mohammed, and Abdulahi Majid. Defender Odinaka Okoro was named Man of the Match.
The Flying Eagles now progress to the tournament semi-finals.
