Emeka Ochulor
The Nigeria Super Falcons have booked their spot in the semifinals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after a resounding 5-0 victory over Zambia’s Copper Queens.
The match which was played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, saw Nigeria dominate from the onset, with Osinachi Ohale scoring the opening goal in the second minute with a precise header.
The Super Falcons continued to press, generating multiple scoring opportunities throughout the initial half. Esther Okoronkwo extended Nigeria’s lead in the 33rd minute, calmly slotting the ball past the Zambian goalkeeper. Just before halftime, Chinwendu Ihezuo added a third goal, converting a one-on-one opportunity against the Zambian goalkeeper.
The second half saw no decrease in intensity from the Nigerian side. Tosin Demehin headed in a free-kick delivered by Esther Okoronkwo in the 69th minute, further increasing the score to 4-0. Folashade Ijamilusi sealed the victory with a fifth goal in the 90+4 minute, tapping home unopposed at the back post.
Throughout the match, Nigeria’s defensive unit maintained its strong performance, ensuring the team’s clean sheet in the tournament thus far. Zambia’s attempts to breach Nigeria’s defense, including efforts from Barbra Banda, were thwarted by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The Super Falcons will now face the winner of the quarterfinal match between South Africa and Senegal in the semifinals. With this dominant win, Nigeria moves closer to their aspiration for a tenth WAFCON title, a goal they have termed “Mission X”.
Nigerian coach Justin Madugu implemented several strategic substitutions during the second half, bringing in Asisat Oshoala, Christy Ucheibe, and Deborah Abiodun for Esther Okoronkwo, Echegini, and Halimatu Ayinde. Chinwendu Ihezuo was later substituted by Sikiratu Isah.
[7/18, 9:44 PM] The Investigator News: The Nigeria Super Falcons secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Zambia in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-final match at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Friday, July 18, 2025. The win propels Nigeria, a nine-time champion, closer to their aspiration for a tenth title, a goal they have termed “Mission X.”
The encounter, which some football analysts had anticipated would be a closely contested affair between Zambia’s Barbra Banda, the current African Wo
