By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Chiwendu Ihezuo’s last-minute goal was enough to see the Super Falcons advance to the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, as they edged out Botswana 1-0.
The match began with both teams fighting for control, though Nigeria had the upper hand in possession. Botswana tried their luck with a couple of long-range shots, but none of them caused any serious problems for the Super Falcons.
The game’s first real opportunity came in the 23rd minute when Ashleigh Plumptre, assisted by Toni Payne, fired wide of the target.
Nigeria kept up the pressure on Botswana’s defense, and nine minutes before halftime, Payne had another chance to put Nigeria ahead, but her shot went off target.
At the start of the second half, coach Justine Madugu made three changes, replacing Asisat Oshoala, Payne, and Babajide with Esther Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe, and Ihezuo, respectively.
Despite the fresh legs, Nigeria found it tough to break down Botswana’s well-organized defense, with Jennifer Echegini coming closest to scoring in the 78th minute.
With the match nearing its end, Nigeria finally found the breakthrough in the dying seconds of the game. Ihezuo was in the right place at the right time, sliding in to convert Okoronkwo’s low cross and seal the win for the Super Falcons.
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