Nigeria power past Zambia to secure Wafcon semi-final place

Edited by: Fatima Babadin

Nigeria advanced to the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca after sweeping aside Zambia with a commanding five-goal victory. The Super Falcons imposed their rhythm from the opening minutes as Osinachi Ohale opened the scoring early following a defensive lapse, giving Nigeria a solid foundation for the rest of the match. Despite Zambia’s attempts to respond, the West Africans showed clinical efficiency in front of goal and extended their lead through Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo before halftime, keeping their opponents under constant pressure.

After the interval, Nigeria maintained their dominance with Oluwatosin Demehin heading in a fourth from a well-delivered set piece, while Folashade Ijamilusi capped the scoring in stoppage time. The Copper Queens, who had been considered one of the tournament’s dark horses after an impressive group stage, struggled to create real threats and failed to break down Nigeria’s organised defense. Their attacking duo, Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, could not find the target despite their reputation from previous matches.

With this result, Nigeria remain the only team in the tournament yet to concede a goal, demonstrating both their defensive solidity and attacking intent. Looking ahead, the Super Falcons will meet either South Africa or Senegal in the next round, as they continue their pursuit of a record tenth continental title. Zambia, after a promising start to their campaign, now shift their focus to building for future tournaments with a new generation of talent.