WAFCON 2024: Super Falcons Eye Quarter-Final Spot Against Botswana

By Iyojo Ameh

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will look to book an early ticket to the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) when they take on Botswana on Thursday in their second Group B fixture.

The nine-time African champions began their campaign in Morocco with a dominant 3-0 victory over Tunisia on Monday, courtesy of goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and Chinwendu Ihezuo. Another win against Botswana at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca would guarantee them a place in the last eight of the tournament.

Nigeria, who are gunning for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, face a familiar opponent in Botswana, a side they defeated 2-0 in their last encounter during the 2022 edition. Goals from Ifeoma Onumonu (21’) and Christy Ucheibe (48’) sealed that win.

Ahead of Thursday’s clash, Head Coach Justin Madugu reaffirmed his side’s focused approach.

“As I said before the commencement of the tournament, we remain focused on our Mission X, and we believe that victory over Botswana is a huge possibility,” Madugu told journalists.

“We are taking it one match at a time without taking any team for granted.”

The Super Falcons have no injury concerns going into the tie and will be buoyed by their commanding form and depth, with a healthy mix of experienced players and rising stars.

Despite Nigeria’s pedigree, Botswana’s head coach Alex Malete insists his team is ready to challenge the African giants.

“We’re confident and positive that we can qualify for the quarterfinals,” Malete said during a pre-match press briefing.
“Everyone in the group believes we can pull through. The belief in our system is stronger than the pressure and the doubt.”

Botswana, nicknamed the Mares, edged Algeria 1-0 in their opening match but now face a much sterner test in Nigeria. Their last meeting with the Super Falcons ended in a lesson in possession and control, as they managed just 26% of the ball.

Still, Malete is hopeful.

“If we play with heart, desire, commitment, and patience, we should be able to get a good result and make the game competitive.”

Thursday’s encounter marks only the second time both sides will clash at WAFCON. Their first meeting in 2022 saw Nigeria triumph 2-0 in a Group C fixture in Rabat, eventually sending Botswana through as one of the best third-placed teams — though they were later eliminated in the quarter-finals by host nation Morocco.

With both teams aiming to solidify their path in the tournament, all eyes will be on Casablanca as the Super Falcons aim to continue their march toward a historic 10th title, while the Mares seek an upset to revive their quarter-final hopes.