A late goal from substitute Chinwendu Ihezuo was enough to seal a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Nigeria’s Super Falcons over a stubborn Botswana side, as the defending champions booked their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Playing at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, the Falcons were made to work for every inch by a determined Botswana team, who held firm for 89 minutes before finally conceding the match-winner.
Ihezuo, introduced at halftime as part of a triple substitution by coach Justin Madugu, pounced late on to break the deadlock with a composed finish after sustained pressure in the second half. Her goal ensures Nigeria remains top of Group B with two wins from two matches and yet to concede a goal.
Tense First Half
Despite dominating possession and territory early on, the Super Falcons struggled to convert their control into goals. Botswana, who had lost narrowly to Algeria in their opener, came into the match determined to frustrate their more illustrious opponents—and they nearly snatched a surprise lead themselves.
Balothany Johannes and Laone Moloi both tested Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie with dangerous efforts, while Nigeria’s frontline—led by Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne—missed key opportunities to take the lead before the interval.
Madugu’s Changes Make the Difference
At halftime, Coach Madugu responded by bringing on Christy Ucheibe, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo, injecting energy into the midfield and attack.
The impact was immediate, with Nigeria creating more sustained pressure. Ashleigh Plumptre’s dangerous deliveries and Deborah Abiodun’s drive from midfield pinned Botswana back, and Ihezuo came close with a header shortly after the restart.
Eventually, the breakthrough came in the 89th minute, as Ihezuo slotted past Botswana’s standout performer, goalkeeper and captain Sedilame Boseja, who had kept Nigeria at bay with a string of top-class saves.
Job Done for Nigeria, Do-or-Die for Botswana
The Super Falcons calmly saw out the final minutes to secure all three points and their spot in the knockout stage with a game to spare.
“We knew it wouldn’t be easy,” said coach Madugu post-match. “Botswana are very organized and motivated. I’m proud of the way we stayed patient and got the job done.”
Botswana, still without a point, now face a must-win clash against Tunisia if they hope to progress.
Nigeria, meanwhile, will look to make it three wins from three in their final group game, with confidence high and their title defence very much on track.
FULL-TIME:
Nigeria 1–0 Botswana
Goal: Chinwendu Ihezuo (89’)
Group B Standings:
- Nigeria – 6 pts
- Tunisia – 3 pts
- Algeria – 3 pts
- Botswana – 0 pts
Next Match:
Nigeria vs Algeria | Botswana vs Tunisia – Final Group B Fixtures
