Substitute Chiwendu Ihezuo scored a dramatic late winner as Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured their place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 victory over Botswana.
The decisive moment came in the 90th minute when Ihezuo slid home to convert Esther Okoronkwo’s cross, breaking the deadlock in a tightly contested match.
Nigeria dominated possession in the first half but struggled to convert chances. Defender Ashleigh Plumptre missed the game’s first clear opportunity in the 23rd minute, while Toni Payne failed to hit the target nine minutes before halftime.
Head coach Justine Madugu made three attacking substitutions after the break, introducing Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe and the eventual matchwinner Ihezuo in place of Asisat Oshoala, Payne and Rasheedat Ajibade.
The Super Falcons continued pressing but found Botswana’s defense difficult to break down until Ihezuo’s late intervention. Jennifer Echegini had come close 12 minutes before the winner with another Nigerian chance.
The victory sees Nigeria advance to the knockout stages as they continue their quest for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title. Botswana, making only their second tournament appearance, bow out despite a resilient defensive performance.
The Super Falcons will now prepare for their quarter-final matchup as the tournament progresses in Morocco.
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