Super Falcons Secure WAFCON Quarter-Final Spot with Late Win Over Resilient Botswana
Casablanca, Morocco – July 11, 2025 – Nigeria’s Super Falcons clinched their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) yesterday, Thursday, July 10, with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a determined Botswana side.
A dramatic 89th-minute goal from substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo finally broke the deadlock at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, securing Nigeria’s second win of the tournament.
The nine-time champions were made to work incredibly hard by the Mares of Botswana, who displayed a disciplined defensive performance and were buoyed by an outstanding showing from captain and goalkeeper Sedilame Boseja.
Despite dominating possession and territory, Nigeria struggled to create clear-cut chances in the first half, with efforts from Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne going begging. Botswana, meanwhile, nearly pulled off a shock through Balothany Johannes and Laone Moloi, whose attempts tested Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu introduced Christy Ucheibe, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo at halftime, a triple substitution that ultimately proved decisive. Nigeria increased the pressure in the second half, with Ashleigh Plumptre’s deliveries and Deborah Abiodun’s drives keeping Botswana pinned back. Ihezuo went close with a header earlier in the half before eventually finding the net in the dying minutes, slotting home after good build-up play.
Boseja, who had made several crucial saves throughout the match, could do little to deny Ihezuo’s late winner. Botswana, visibly fatigued, offered little in response as the Super Falcons expertly saw out the win.
With two wins from two matches and yet to concede a goal, Nigeria now comfortably tops Group B and has secured an early passage to the knockout stages. Botswana, despite their valiant effort, remains without a point and will need to defeat Tunisia in their final group match to have any chance of advancing.
While Nigeria’s performance at times lacked the fluidity expected of a champion side, their experience and squad depth ultimately shone through. For Botswana, it was another performance marked by immense heart and resilience, though unfortunately, it lacked the desired reward.
Nigeria and Botswana
Beyond the pitch, diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Botswana have seen efforts to strengthen ties. Both nations have expressed a desire for increased cooperation in areas such as trade, cultural exchange, and even agricultural development, with Nigeria particularly looking to Botswana’s expertise in livestock and animal vaccine production.
Recent discussions have focused on fostering economic diplomacy and exploring opportunities for mutual benefit, highlighting a broader relationship that extends beyond the football field.
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