Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a stunning performance on Friday at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, overwhelming Zambia with a 5–0 victory in the quarter-final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The win not only secured Nigeria’s spot in the semi-finals but also marked their 13th appearance at that stage in the competition’s history.
The Nigerian side came into the encounter with a point to prove, having lost 0–1 to Zambia in the third-place match of the 2022 edition. Determined to rewrite the narrative, the Falcons came out strong from the very first whistle. Just two minutes into the game, a pinpoint cross found Osinachi Ohale, who rose to nod home the opener, setting the tone for what would become a dominant outing.
Zambia, led by the 2024 African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Barbara Banda, tried to gain a foothold in the game, showing glimpses of threat in attack. However, Nigeria doubled their lead in the 26th minute through Esther Okoronkwo. After expertly controlling the ball, she unleashed a well-timed half-volley that left Zambian goalkeeper Ngambo Musole with no chance.
The Super Falcons continued their clinical display with a third goal right before halftime. Chinwendu Ihezuo held her ground against a defender and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner to make it 3–0. Nigeria took that comfortable lead into the break, having dominated the half both in possession and chances created.
After the restart, the Nigerian team resumed their offensive push with sharp passes and pressing play. Musole made some crucial saves to momentarily keep the scoreline respectable, but the pressure eventually broke Zambia again. In the 68th minute, Oluwatosin Demehin added the fourth goal, heading home from close range after sustained pressure.
Coach Justin Madugu introduced fresh legs into the game, with Asisat Oshoala and Christy Ucheibe replacing Esther Okoronkwo and Halimatu Ayinde. The changes further energized the Falcons, and their relentless pursuit of goals paid off in stoppage time. Team captain Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a well-placed cross that found Folashade Ijamilusi at the near post, and she made no mistake tapping it in to complete the 5–0 rout.
With this emphatic victory, Nigeria have now kept four consecutive clean sheets in the tournament, reinforcing their status as favorites. The Super Falcons, who have lifted the WAFCON trophy a record nine times, are now one step closer to a 10th title.
What You Should Know
The Super Falcons’ 5–0 win over Zambia not only avenged their 2022 loss but also highlighted their dominance in African women’s football. With a record 13 semi-final appearances and nine titles already under their belt, Nigeria remain the team to beat in WAFCON 2024.
