Nigeria's Super Falcons triumphed at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, securing a semi-final spot in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Falcons were ruthless in front of goal, cruising to a dominant 5-0 win over the Copper Queens in a rematch of the third-place match from the last edition in 2022.
The nine-time African champions put their Zambian counterpart to the sword and progressed to the semi-finals for a record 13th time. Veteran defender Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Tosin Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi were all on the scoresheet.
The Super Falcons were quickly out of the blocks with an early opener inside two minutes from Ohale, who rose highest to head home a free kick from Okoronkwo, who recorded her third assist of the tournament.
Zambia were inches away from drawing level, but Grace Chanda failed to make contact with the ball after Barbra Banda found her inside the box with a cutback.
The Copper Queens were made to rue the missed chance, with Okoronkwo doubling Nigeria’s lead in the 33rd minute. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade found Okoronkwo with a cross, which the forward brought down before finding the bottom corner.
The Falcons were clearly looking to exploit Zambia’s aerial frailties, a strategy that provided positive results, forcing goalkeeper Ngambo Musole to make saves from set pieces.
Justine Madugu’s side, however, scored their third goal courtesy of a simple finish from Ihezuo in the 45th minute. The Zambian defence failed to deal with a darting ball from goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, and Ihezuo powered through before placing the ball past Musole.
Zambia emerged from the break with renewed zeal, pressing for a goal. But, Nora Hauptle’s side couldn’t find a breakthrough as Nigeria’s rearguard stifled their attack, limiting any clear-cut chances for the likes of Banda and Racheal Kundananji.
The Falcons continued to look dangerous in dead ball situations, and they punished Zambia from another set piece. Okoronkwo’s free kick found an unmarked Demehin at the back post, with the defender powering home a header in the 68th minute.
Ijamilusi, who got a surprise start, completed the rout for Nigeria in second half stoppage time, tapping home Ajibade’s low cross into an empty net.
The Super Falcons successfully avenged their 1-0 loss to Zambia from three years ago and march on to the last four, where they will face the winner of the match between holders South Africa and Senegal. Banyana Banyana will take on the Teranga Lionesses on Saturday, at the Honor Stadium in Oujda.
