WAFCON 2025: Super Falcons edge Botswana to reach quarter-finals

Nigeria’s Super Falcons continued their pursuit of a record-extending 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title with a narrow but vital 1–0 victory over Botswana on Thursday, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the 13th edition of the tournament.

In a tightly contested encounter in Casablanca, Mexico-based striker Chinwendu Ihezuo emerged as the match-winner once again. Following her goal in Nigeria’s 3–0 win over Tunisia, Ihezuo was on target in the 36th minute, stretching to slot home a well-timed pass from Esther Okoronkwo.

Botswana set up defensively, clearly aiming to frustrate the Nigerian attack by crowding their own half and limiting space. Their approach almost paid off, as the Super Falcons found it difficult to break through, despite the attacking presence of Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide.

The match may have lacked flair, but the result was all that mattered as Nigeria progressed to the knockout stage with one game to spare.

The Super Falcons will now turn their attention to their final Group B fixture against Algeria, set for Sunday evening at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium, as they aim to finish the group stage on a high.