Super Falcons seal quarter-final spot with last-gasp win over Botswana

Chinwendu Ihezuo emerged as Nigeria’s match-winner on Thursday, scoring an 89th-minute goal to secure a 1-0 victory over Botswana in a tense Group B encounter at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Coming off the bench late in the game, Ihezuo was in the right place to convert a low cross from Esther Okoronkwo, breaking the deadlock and sending the Super Falcons through to the quarter-finals.

The match, played at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, saw Nigeria dominate possession but struggle to find a breakthrough against a well-organized and determined Botswana side. Despite being the favourites and nine-time champions, the Falcons were repeatedly frustrated by Botswana’s defence and their standout goalkeeper, Sedilame Boseja.

Nigeria’s attacking duo, Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne, both missed chances to give their team an early lead. Botswana also had their moments, with Balothany Johannes and Laone Moloi testing Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

In the end, it was Ihezuo’s late finish that made the difference, ensuring Nigeria’s place in the knockout stage and maintaining their perfect start to the tournament. Botswana, meanwhile, will need a strong performance in their final group game to keep their WAFCON hopes alive.