CAN Women’s 2024: Chinwendu Ihezuo sends Nigeria to the quarter-finals

Nigeria narrowly avoided a shock against Botswana (1-1) on July 10, 2024, in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, before snatching quarter-final qualification thanks to a late goal from Chinwendu Ihezuo. The Super Falcons, widely considered favorites, had to fight hard against a well-organized Botswana side.

The Nigerians faced Botswana this evening at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in the second round of Group B at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. After a commanding win over Tunisia (3-0) in their opener, the Super Falcons were put to the test by the Mares, who were chasing their first victory.

A tougher match than expected for the Super Falcons

This second Group B fixture in the 2024 Women’s AFCON was expected to be a mere formality for the Super Falcons, who topped the group after their emphatic 3-0 win over Tunisia. However, the Nigerians ran up against a remarkably disciplined Botswana defense that held firm for long stretches.

Rasheedat Ajibade and Uchenna Kanu unleashed a flurry of shots, while Ashleigh Plumptre and Toni Payne squandered good chances in the first half, as Botswana kept their defensive line high. Asisat Oshoala’s teammates dominated proceedings but couldn’t translate their technical superiority into goals against opponents determined to cause an upset.

Chinwendu Ihezuo rescues Nigeria from the trap

The match’s script flipped in the dying minutes. Chinwendu Ihezuo, who came on early in the second half, broke the deadlock with a pinpoint strike in the 89th minute. The Pachuca striker delivered a lifeline for the Super Falcons with her decisive goal.

This late goal prevented a draw that would have complicated the qualification for the eleven-time African champions. With six points after two rounds, Nigeria become the first team to book their spot in the 2024 Women’s AFCON quarter-finals.

Lydiane N'Po |

Editorfr, en

Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.