Nigeria secured a quarterfinal spot in the 2024 WAFCON, all thanks to Chiwendu Ihezuo’s 89th-minute goal in a tepid game against a resilient Botswana side.
Nigeria becomes the first nation to qualify for this year’s WAFCON quarterfinals.
Despite having over 70% possession, the Super Falcons found the Botswanese difficult to break down in a tepid game.
Nigeria Secure Quarterfinal Spot
Esther Okoronkwo looked dangerous with her left foot, attempting a shot that deflected into Chinwendu Ihezuo’s path and made no mistakes, netting a late goal to secure all three points for the Super Falcons.
The combination of Ihezuo and Okoronkwo is the second time at the 2024 WAFCON for Nigeria.
The first was in the first group game against Tunisia for Nigeria’s third goal in a 3-0 win.
Earlier, Substitute Jennifer Echegini came close with a snapshot in the 71st minute, and then called upon the agility of South Africa-based Bosija with an angled shot in the 82nd minute.
The scrappy nature was evident in the first and second halves, with the opposition stifling play with numbers in midfield and defence.
Also, substitute Ihezuo headed over the bar in the 48th minute, and the energetic Plumptre saw her tricky shot heaved over the sticks by goalkeeper Maitumelo Bosija in the 64th minute.
Nigeria has 6 points and has qualified for the quarter finals with a game to spare.
Meanwhile, the Super Falcons will play their last group stage game against Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium. on Sunday, 13th July, 2025.
