- Safiu Kehinde
The Super Falcons of Nigeria has scaled through to the quarterfinals as lone goal from super sub, Chinwendu Ihezuo, saw the secured all three points for the team against Botswana’s Mares in their second group match at the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco.
Thursday’s encounter at Stade Larbi Zaouli saw the Southern Africans give the nine-time champions a real challenge throughout the game.
Botswana signalled early intent, as Refilwe Tholakele’s fierce strike forced goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie into a quick double save.
The Mares stayed resolute at the back, with goalkeeper Sedilame Bosija marshalling the defence and frustrating Nigeria’s attacking efforts.
Midway through the frustrating first half, Ashley Plumptre surged forward but narrowly missed after a well-placed pass from Rasheedat Ajibade.
Super Falcons’ midfielder, Toni Payne, would again squandered a promising chance as she blasted high when clear through on goal from the right flank.
The second half remained scrappy, as Botswana packed the midfield and defence, making it difficult for Nigeria to find rhythm.
In the 48th minute, substitute Ihezuo headed over the bar, while Plumptre’s curling shot was tipped over in the 64th minute.
Bosija was finally beaten in the 89th minute when Okoronkwo broke through and set up Ihezuo who gilded the ball past Bosija for the decisive goal.
The Super Falcons will next face Algeria on Sunday evening, again at the Stade Larbi Zaouli, in their final group B fixture.