Super Falcons Set Up Quarter-Final Showdown with Zambia After Goalless Draw with Algeria

Nigeria’s Super Falcons advanced to the WAFCON quarter-finals after a goalless draw with Algeria.

They will now battle Zambia on Friday for a spot in the semi-finals.

Nigeria’s Super Falcons have booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a 0-0 draw against Algeria in their final Group B match on Sunday in Casablanca.

The result secured Nigeria’s progression into the knockout stage under the tournament’s new expanded format. The nine-time African champions will now face Zambia’s Copper Queens in what promises to be a thrilling quarter-final clash on Friday.

Head coach Justine Madugu rotated heavily for the fixture, making eight changes from the side that narrowly defeated Botswana 1-0 in their previous outing. Several key players were rested as the team looked ahead to the more challenging knockout rounds. Back in the starting lineup were defenders Shukurat Oladipo, Miracle Usani, and Sikiratu Isah; midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini; and forwards Francisca Ordega, Ifeoma Onumonu and Chinwendu Ihezuo. Regulars like goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, centre-back Tosin Demehin, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade retained their spots.

Despite controlling possession for most of the match, the Super Falcons were unable to break through Algeria’s compact and resolute defense. Similar to their approach against Botswana, the Algerians dropped deep and crowded their half, making it difficult for Nigeria to create clear-cut chances.

Francisca Ordega, who was among the most active players for Nigeria, nearly created a first-half goal. Her cross deflected into the path of Onumonu, whose shot was blocked before it could reach Algerian goalkeeper Chloe N’gazi Boumrar.

In the second half, Nigeria continued to push for a goal. A melee in the Algerian penalty area in the 52nd minute saw multiple chances go begging. Shortly afterwards, Ordega set up Rasheedat Ajibade, who was immediately closed down by two defenders and lost possession.

Madugu introduced Esther Okoronkwo from the bench in the second half, hoping to inject some attacking flair. Okoronkwo, along with Ordega and Echegini, pressed hard in the closing stages, but Algeria held firm to secure a valuable point, one that also earned them a quarter-final spot.

Nigeria’s defensive stability continued, with Chiamaka Nnadozie barely troubled throughout the match. However, concerns remain about the team’s attacking efficiency heading into Friday’s tie against Zambia, which has also impressed during the tournament.

With the group phase now concluded, Nigeria will regroup and aim for a sharper performance in the last eight. The quarter-final showdown with Zambia is expected to be fiercely contested, with both teams eyeing a place in the semi-finals.