Super Falcons beat Botswana 1-0 to reach WAFCON 2025 quarter finals as Chinwendu Ihezuo’s late goal sealed victory in a tense and scrappy group match

Nigeria’s march toward a 10th Women Africa Cup of Nations title stayed on course on Thursday, as the Super Falcons beat Botswana 1-0 to book a place in the quarter finals.

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Chinwendu Ihezuo, who also scored in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Tunisia, netted the decisive goal in the 89th minute. The striker connected brilliantly with a clever pass from Esther Okoronkwo to beat goalkeeper Maitumelo Bosija.

The match, played in Casablanca, was scrappy and tightly contested. Botswana threatened early, as Refilwe Tholakele forced two saves from Chiamaka Nnadozie within minutes of kickoff.

The Southern Africans dropped deep in defence, frustrating Nigeria’s attacking trio of Rasheed Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, and Toni Payne. Several chances went begging, including efforts from Ashley Plumptre and Payne in the first half.

After the break, Ihezuo missed with a header and Plumptre’s low shot was pushed over the bar by Bosija. Jennifer Echegini twice tested the goalkeeper but was denied.

“It was a tough game,” said coach Randy Waldrum. “Botswana defended well but our persistence paid off in the end.”

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With six points from two games, Nigeria will face Algeria on Sunday to close the group stage.