Chinwendu Ihezuo scored a dramatic late winner as Nigeria’s Super Falcons edged Botswana 1-0 on Thursday night to book a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Casablanca.
Ihezuo, who also netted in the Falcons’ 3-0 win over Tunisia, latched onto a clever through ball from Esther Okoronkwo and stretched to slot home the decisive goal in the 89th minute of a tense, scrappy Group B clash at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
The result ensured Nigeria, in search of a record-extending 10th continental title, maintained their 100% start to the tournament and progressed to the knockout stage with a game to spare.
Botswana proved a stubborn opponent, frustrating the nine-time champions for most of the match. Early on, striker Refilwe Tholakele tested Chiamaka Nnadozie, who needed a double save to deny the Southern Africans a shock lead.
Despite Nigeria’s dominating possession, clear chances were few. Skipper Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide were unable to break through a resolute Botswana defence.
Ashley Plumptre and Payne both squandered decent opportunities in the first half, while Ihezuo and Jennifer Echegini went close in the second.
Botswana goalkeeper Maitumelo Bosija, of Mamelodi Sundowns, delivered a standout performance, denying multiple efforts, until Ihezuo finally broke the deadlock.
The Super Falcons now have six points from two matches and are guaranteed a top-two finish in Group B. Their final group match comes on Sunday evening against Algeria, also in Casablanca.
Nigeria’s head coach Randy Waldrum will hope for a more clinical display as the Falcons aim to fine-tune their attack heading into the quarter-finals.
