by David Bolarinwa
The Super Falcons advanced to the semi-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with an emphatic 5-0 victory over the Copper Queens of Zambia.
Nigeria wasted no time in taking control of the game, with centre-back Osinachi Ohale heading in a precise cross from Esther Okoronkwo just two minutes into the match.
Both sides then fought to gain dominance with Zambia’s captain, Barbara Banda, testing the Super Falcons’ defense. However, Nigeria’s lead was extended in the 33rd minute when Okoronkwo latched onto a superb cross from Rasheedat Ajibade and calmly slotted it home.
Chiwendu Ihezuo made it 3-0 just before the break, capitalising on a defensive mistake to score her third goal of the tournament, keeping her in the hunt for the top scorer’s title.
Zambia had a brief spell of possession after halftime but Nigeria stood firm and maintained their commanding lead. In the 68th minute, Tosin Demehin rose highest to head in another beautiful delivery from Okoronkwo, extending the lead to 4-0.
Folashade Ijamilusi completed the dominant performance in the final minute, slamming in a pass from Ajibade to make it 5-0.
With the win, Justine Madugu’s side will face the winner of the South Africa versus Senegal match in the semi-finals next Tuesday.