By Muhammad Mamman
In a electrifying display at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Friday, 18 July 2025, Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a resounding 5-0 victory over Zambia in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 quarterfinals, emphatically banishing the memory of their 0-1 defeat to the same opponents in the 2022 WAFCON third-place match.
The Super Falcons, brimming with intent, set the tone early with a stunning second-minute header from Osinachi Ohale, who rose to meet a pinpoint cross and ignite the Nigerian charge.
The relentless pressure continued, and in the 26th minute, Esther Okoronkwo doubled the lead with a sublime half-volley, expertly controlling the ball before rifling it past Zambia’s goalkeeper, Ng’ambo Musole.
Zambia, spurred on by the dynamic 2024 African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Barbra Banda, showed flashes of attacking flair but struggled to breach Nigeria’s resolute defence.
Just before the break, Chinwendu Ihezuo added a third, shrugging off a challenge to slot the ball neatly into the bottom-left corner in the 45th minute, sending the Falcons into the interval with a commanding 3-0 lead.
The second half saw Nigeria maintain their dominance, with incisive passing and relentless pressure. Goalkeeper Musole stood firm to deny several Nigerian attacks, but the Super Falcons’ persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Oluwatosin Demehin powered home a fourth.
Coach Justin Madugu introduced Asisat Oshoala and Christy Ucheibe as substitutes, injecting fresh energy into the squad. The move proved decisive as Folashade Ijamilusi sealed the rout with a fifth goal, capping a performance of breathtaking skill and determination.
This emphatic victory propels the Super Falcons into the WAFCON 2024 semi-finals, where they will look to continue their scintillating form and chase continental glory. With their ghosts of 2022 firmly laid to rest, Nigeria’s women are soaring, and their sights are set on the ultimate prize.
