Super Falcons Soar To WAFCON Semi-Finals With Resounding 5-0 Victory Over Zambia.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a masterclass performance, thrashing Zambia’s Copper Queens 5-0 in a commanding display to secure their place in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Friday. The nine-time champions showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity, sending a clear message to their rivals in the quest for a record-extending 10th continental title.
The match began with an electrifying start as Osinachi Ohale headed home a pinpoint free-kick from Esther Okoronkwo just two minutes in, setting the tone for Nigeria’s dominance. The Super Falcons maintained relentless pressure, and in the 33rd minute, Okoronkwo turned scorer, latching onto a sublime cross from captain Rasheedat Ajibade to fire a clinical strike into the bottom corner. Just before the half-time whistle, Chinwendu Ihezuo capitalised on a defensive error, slotting home Nigeria’s third goal to give them a comfortable lead at the break.
Zambia, buoyed by their attacking duo of Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, struggled to find their rhythm against Nigeria’s disciplined backline, anchored by Ashleigh Plumptre and Oluwatosin Demehin. The Copper Queens’ hopes of a comeback were dashed in the second half when Demehin added a fourth goal in the 68th minute, powering in a header from another well-executed set-piece. Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi sealed the rout in stoppage time, tapping in Ajibade’s cross to complete Nigeria’s biggest victory of the tournament so far.
Head coach Justin Madugu praised his team’s clinical finishing and defensive resilience. “The girls responded magnificently to our call for sharpness in front of goal. This was a complete performance – solid at the back and ruthless up front,” he said. The Super Falcons’ clean sheet, their fourth consecutive in the tournament, underlined their defensive strength, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie rarely troubled.
Zambia’s coach, Bruce Mwape Hauptle, admitted his side was outplayed. “Nigeria were better tonight. We have a young squad, and this is a learning experience,” he said. Despite their attacking flair in the group stage, Zambia failed to register a shot on target, with Banda and Kundananji effectively neutralised by Nigeria’s defence.
The victory marks Nigeria’s 13th consecutive WAFCON semi-final appearance, a testament to their enduring dominance in African women’s football. Social media buzzed with excitement, with fans praising the team’s “five-star performance” and Okoronkwo’s standout contribution. “The Super Falcons are back to their best! Zambia had no answer,” one supporter posted on X.
Nigeria now await the winner of the quarter-final clash between defending champions South Africa and Senegal, with the semi-final set for Tuesday. As the Super Falcons continue their “Mission X” to reclaim the title last won in 2018, this emphatic win has solidified their status as tournament favourites. With their blend of experience, youth, and attacking firepower, Nigeria’s quest for continental glory is firmly on track.
