In a tense night under the Casablanca lights, Nigeria’s Super Falcons edged past Botswana 1-0 to book their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo played the hero, pouncing in the 89th minute to seal a scrappy win and secure Nigeria’s second straight victory in Group B. With six points from two games, the nine-time African champions now sit comfortably at the top of the group, ahead of Algeria, who were earlier held to a 0-0 draw by Tunisia.
The victory marks the first time Nigeria has recorded back-to-back group stage wins in the competition’s recent history a surprising stat for such a dominant force in African women’s football. Yet, much like their 3-0 win over Tunisia in the opener, this performance left more questions than answers.
Despite their firepower and experience, the Super Falcons lacked fluency and urgency for large parts of the game. Botswana, organized and defiant, frustrated Nigeria with a disciplined defense and some impressive goalkeeping. For 88 minutes, it looked like the underdogs would hold out for a famous draw until Ihezuo, the new “Super Sub,” found space behind the defense to tap home the winner. It was her second goal of the tournament both coming off the bench.
Nigeria’s wastefulness in front of goal remains a concern. Several golden chances went begging again, echoing the same issues seen against Tunisia. If Coach Randy Waldrum’s side truly wants to make history with a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, sharper execution will be non-negotiable in the knockout rounds.
