Nigeria's Super Falcons have secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Botswana on Thursday.
Substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo emerged as the hero for the Nigerian side, scoring the decisive goal in the 90th minute to break the deadlock in what had been a tightly contested match.
The first half saw both teams battling for control, with the Super Falcons enjoying slightly more possession but struggling to create clear-cut chances. Botswana managed a few attempts from outside the box but failed to seriously trouble the Nigerian defense.
Nigeria's first significant opportunity came in the 23rd minute when Ashleigh Plumptre was set up by Toni Payne, but the left-back's effort went off target. The Super Falcons continued to apply pressure, with Payne herself coming close nine minutes before halftime, only to miss the target.
Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu made three impactful substitutions after the break, bringing on Esther Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe, and Ihezuo in place of Asisat Oshoala, Payne, and Babajide respectively.
Despite the changes, Nigeria continued to find it difficult to break down Botswana's resilient defense. Jennifer Echegini came close to scoring 12 minutes from time, but it wasn't until the final minute of regular time that the breakthrough finally arrived.
Okoronkwo delivered a precise cross into the box, and Ihezuo timed her run perfectly to slide the ball home, sending Nigerian fans into jubilation and securing the team's progression to the knockout stages of the tournament.
The victory maintains Nigeria's strong tradition in the continental competition as they continue their quest for another WAFCON title. The Super Falcons have historically been one of Africa's most dominant teams in women's football, and this result further cements their status as serious contenders in the 2024 edition.
Prior to the match, Botswana's coach Malete had expressed confidence that his team could upset the Nigerian side, while Super Falcons defender Ohale had emphasized the importance of maintaining another clean sheet in the tournament.
The Super Falcons will now prepare for their quarter-final fixture, with details of their next opponents to be confirmed as the tournament progresses.
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