By Prosper Mene
Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured their spot in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Botswana on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
A late goal by Chinwendu Ihezuo in the 88th minute clinched the victory, making Nigeria the first team to advance to the knockout stages in Morocco.Facing a stubborn Botswana defense, the Super Falcons dominated possession but struggled to break through until substitute Halimatu Ayinde set up Ihezuo for the decisive strike. Coach Justin Madugu praised his team’s patience, saying, “Botswana made it tough, but we stayed focused and got the job done.” The win follows Nigeria’s 3-0 rout of Tunisia in their Group B opener, where Ihezuo, Asisat Oshoala, and Rinsola Babajide scored.
Botswana, in their second WAFCON appearance, battled hard despite a 1-0 loss to Algeria in their first match. Coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwe’s Mares, with key players Lone Gaofetoge and Nandi Mahlasela back from suspension, leaned on forward Refilwe Tholakele but couldn’t find a way past Nigeria’s defense, led by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Botswana now faces a tough path to the knockout rounds.
Social media buzzed with praise for Ihezuo’s late heroics and Nigeria’s resilience, with fans on hailing the team’s resilience. The Super Falcons previously beat Botswana 2-0 in the 2022 WAFCON group stage, and this victory keeps their perfect record against the Mares intact.
With two clean sheets and six points, Nigeria’s next Group B match against Algeria on July 13 is a chance to solidify their dominance. Fans can watch live on DSTV, SuperSport, SABC Sport, AfroSport, and CAF’s YouTube channel. As the Super Falcons chase a 10th WAFCON title, this win signals their intent to reclaim the crown last won in 2018.
