Super Falcons of Nigeria have qualified for the semifinals of the 2024 WAFCON with convincing 5-0 victory over Zambia in Casablanca on Friday.
The Nigeria female team remain unbeaten in the tournament so far, maintained their defensive record while producing their most clinical attacking display yet, demolishing the Copper Queens with ruthless efficiency at Stade Larbi Zaouli.
Nigeria’s mission was clear from the first whistle, and they needed just two minutes to assert control.
Centre-back Osinachi Ohale rose highest to head home Esther Okoronkwo’s pinpoint free-kick delivery, setting the tone for a night to forget for Zambia.
The nine-time champions doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Okoronkwo, again heavily involved, finished off a flowing move with a composed strike into the bottom corner. Zambia, who had shown grit and flair in the group stages, looked shell-shocked.
Before the half-time whistle, Nigeria added a third. Chinwendu Ihezuo pounced on a loose ball in the box to slot in a left-footed finish and all but end the contest.
Zambia, for all their attacking prowess led by captain Barbra Banda and Grace Chanda, failed to replicate the fluid football that had seen them finish second in Group A.
Their attacks were often disjointed and met with a disciplined Nigerian backline anchored by Ashleigh Plumptre.
After the break, Nigeria remained in control. Oluwatosin Demehin made it 4-0 in the 68th minute, nodding in from close range after another set-piece wreaked havoc in Zambia’s area.
The fifth arrived in stoppage time, with substitute Folashade Ijamilusi applying the finishing touch following good work by Rasheedat Ajibade.
Zambia’s frustration was summed up by Banda’s repeated offsides and speculative efforts, while Chanda’s long-range attempt in the 51st minute was comfortably blocked.
With this emphatic victory, Nigeria maintain their push for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Zambia, who had hoped to build on their 2022 bronze finish, now exit the tournament having been outclassed by a side still to concede a single goal.
Nigeria will now await their semi-final opponents with growing confidence and belief that their dominance on the continent remains intact.
