Casablanca, Morocco
Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a stunning 5-0 demolition of Zambia’s Copper Queens on Friday to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The emphatic win at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca underlined Nigeria’s credentials as favourites for the title, as the nine-time champions showed ruthless precision and defensive strength in a dominant display.
The Super Falcons set the tone early with centre-back Osinachi Ohale nodding home a perfectly delivered free-kick from Esther Okoronkwo just two minutes after kickoff. Nigeria doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Okoronkwo displayed brilliant control to convert a pinpoint cross from captain Rasheedat Ajibade, slotting the ball calmly into the bottom corner. Just before halftime, Chinwendu Ihezuo capitalized on Zambia’s defensive lapse to make it 3-0, effectively putting the tie beyond doubt.
Nigeria maintained their dominance in the second half. Oluwatosin Demehin added a fourth with a powerful header from another Okoronkwo set-piece in the 68th minute. Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi wrapped up the rout in stoppage time, tapping home from close range after a low cross from Ajibade.
Defensively, Nigeria was rock solid. The partnership of Ohale and Demehin ensured Zambia’s attacking threats — including Barbara Banda and Racheal Kundananji — were neutralized. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie secured her fourth consecutive clean sheet of the tournament, underlining Nigeria’s defensive discipline. Zambia’s best chance fell to Grace Chanda in the first half, but her miss summed up a frustrating day for the Copper Queens.
The defeat ends Zambia’s campaign, while Nigeria marches on in their quest for a historic 10th WAFCON title — dubbed “Mission X.” Head coach Justine Madugu praised his team’s focus and execution, saying: “We knew what Zambia could bring, but we prepared well. The girls delivered with heart, quality, and composure.”
Nigeria will face either South Africa or Senegal in Tuesday’s semi-final, with fans already hailing the Falcons’ performance as a statement of intent. Across social media, supporters celebrated the team’s dominance, describing them as “ruthless,” “regal,” and “unstoppable.”
This victory not only avenges Nigeria’s 1-0 loss to Zambia in the 2022 WAFCON third-place playoff but also reaffirms their status as the powerhouse of African women’s football. With an unbeaten run and no goals conceded so far, the Super Falcons look poised to write another golden chapter in their illustrious history.
