Super Falcons Crush Zambia 5-0 to Reach WAFCON 2024 Semi-Finals

Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered a commanding performance on Friday, defeating Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.

With goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi, the Falcons not only booked their spot in the semi-finals but also avenged their 0-1 loss to the Copper Queens in the third-place match of WAFCON 2022.

It took just two minutes for Nigeria to find their rhythm. A well-placed cross found Ohale, who rose above the defence to nod home the opener and set the tone for the game.

Zambia responded with urgency, building their attacks around African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Barbara Banda. But despite their growing confidence, Nigeria extended their lead in the 26th minute. Esther Okoronkwo expertly controlled a lofted ball and smashed in a half-volley past goalkeeper Ngambo Musole.

Chinwendu Ihezuo added Nigeria’s third just before halftime, muscling off a defender before calmly finishing into the bottom corner. The Super Falcons entered the break with a commanding 3-0 lead.

The second half began with Nigeria continuing their dominance, moving the ball swiftly and creating chances. Although Musole pulled off several saves to keep Zambia in the game, she was eventually beaten again in the 68th minute when Oluwatosin Demehin nodded in a close-range header.

Coach Justin Madugu brought on fresh legs, introducing Asisat Oshoala and Christy Ucheibe for Okoronkwo and Halimatu Ayinde. The changes injected more energy into the side, and in stoppage time, Nigeria added a fifth. Rasheedat Ajibade delivered a precise cross that found Ijamilusi, who made no mistake with her finish at the near post.

“The victory means a lot to us,” Madugu said post-match, as his team secured a record 13th semi-final appearance in the tournament’s history.

Friday’s win also marked Nigeria’s fourth consecutive clean sheet at WAFCON 2024. The Super Falcons, nine-time champions of the competition, continue to chase a tenth title with their eyes now firmly set on the semi-finals.