FIFA has commended the Nigerian Super Falcons for being the first team to earn a ticket to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
With a fierce 1-0 victory over rivals Botswana in their second Group B match on Thursday, the nine-time champions secured their place in the knockout stage of the competition.
At Stade Larbi Zaouli, the Super Falcons had previously defeated North African opponents Tunisia 3-0 in their opening game, and Chinwendu Ihezuo’s late goal sealed the win against Botswana.
Nigeria prevailed in the keenly contested game despite Botswana’s strong defence, demonstrating their determination to reclaim the WAFCON title.
FIFA posted on X in response to the hard-fought victory: “Naija on the move!”
The Super Falcons’ coach, Justine Madugu, acknowledged that his squad did not reach the expected level in the performance against Botswana.
“We were a bit complacent and took things for granted, and that accounted for the kind of game we had,” Madugu said in the post-match conference.
“Individually, we didn’t put up a very good performance. We’re not happy about this.
“It was a tough game—highly competitive.
“Botswana were very spirited. They were determined to get a result,” Madugu added.
