Chinwendu Ihezuo’s dramatic 89th-minute goal ensured Nigeria advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2025 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Botswana in Casablanca.
The game at Stade Larbi Zaouli was tightly contested, with the Super Falcons dominating possession but struggling to break down a resolute Botswana side. Despite early chances from Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne, the first half ended goalless. Botswana’s captain and goalkeeper, Sedilame Bosua, produced several impressive saves to keep her side in the match.
Substitute Ihezuo, introduced at half-time alongside Esther Okoronkwo and Christy Ucheibe, ultimately proved decisive. She patiently waited for a loose ball in the box and calmly slotted home Nigeria’s winner late on.
With this result, the Super Falcons lead Group B on maximum points, keeping a clean sheet for the second match running – their first such start at WAFCON since 1998. Botswana remain bottom of the group with no points, now needing a win over Tunisia to stay in contention.
Editorial
We are heartened to witness the Super Falcons display resilience and composure in the face of stern resistance. Their dominance in possession was met with frustration, but they remained patient—trusting in their depth and quality.
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Ihezuo’s late winner epitomises the value of strategic substitutes. She not only brought fresh energy but faith in the team’s system. That tactical acuity from coach Justine Madugu underlines the importance of adaptability and decisiveness in tournament football.
We recognise this performance as further evidence of the Super Falcons’ winning mentality. Clean sheets and narrow victories speak to a unit built on discipline and collective strength. Yet, their attacking fluency still needs sharpening. The early dominance must translate into earlier goals.
This victory, though narrow, cements their leadership in Group B and boosts confidence ahead of the knockout rounds. As expectations mount, we must remain steadfast in backing them not just for the flair they bring, but for their resolve and unity. That blend, we believe, will carry them deeper into this competition.
Did You Know?
- Chinwendu Ihezuo holds the record for the most goals in a single FIFA U‑17 Women’s World Cup match: she scored six in Nigeria’s 11-0 win over Azerbaijan in 2012.
- The Super Falcons have now kept clean sheets in their first two group-stage matches at WAFCON 2025 the first time since 1998.
- Botswana are nicknamed the “Mares” in women’s football competitions, a term embraced by their fans.
- Sedilame Bosua’s impressive goalkeeping included several crucial saves in the first half to keep Nigeria at bay until Ihezuo’s late breakthrough.
- Nigeria’s victory sealed their fifth consecutive WAFCON group-stage win dating back to previous editions, underlining their consistency.
