Super Falcons humble Zambia 5-0 to reach WAFCON Semi-Finals

Nigeria booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a dominant 5-0 win over Zambia on Friday in Casablanca.

Despite pre-match expectations of a tight contest, the Super Falcons outclassed the Copper Queens with a commanding performance from start to finish.

The nine-time African champions got off to a flying start when Osinachi Ohale nodded in a free-kick just two minutes into the game, leaving Zambian goalkeeper Petronella Musole with no chance.

Zambia came close to equalising on the half-hour mark, but Grace Chanda missed a key opportunity. Nigeria responded swiftly, with Esther Okoronkwo capitalising on poor defending to double the lead.

Chinwendu Ihezuo added a third just before the break after calmly converting a loose ball in the box, effectively sealing the outcome of the match before the second half.

The Super Falcons didn’t ease off after the interval. Oluwatosin Demehin rose highest to head in from another well-delivered set-piece, while substitute Folashade Ijamilusi rounded off the scoring with a composed finish in added time.

Zambia, who had edged Nigeria to third place at the 2022 tournament, were completely shut out. Their star forwards, Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji—each with three goals in the group stage—were neutralised by Nigeria’s disciplined defence, failing to register a shot on target.

Nigeria’s win not only secured a place in the semi-finals but also maintained their flawless defensive record, having yet to concede in the tournament. They will face the winner between South Africa and Senegal in Tuesday’s semi-final at 16:00 GMT.