Women's Africa Cup of Nations: Nigeria on Course to Return to Final?
by Geoffrey Ejiga | by Geoffrey Ejiga
Super Falcons Score 5-Nil To Beat Zambia’s Copper Queens
The quarter-final meeting between the Nigerian Super Falcons and the Zambian Copper Queens was billed to be a thriller, and the game lived up to expectations. Nigeria raced to the lead, scoring three goals in the first half, thanks to strikes from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo.
As the second half kicked off, the Copper Queens tried to regain momentum, stringing a few clean passes together as they looked to create deadly openings. However, the Nigerian side wasted no time in resuming the scoring.
In the 68th minute, Oluwatosin Demehin added a fourth, putting all hopes of a comeback to rest. One would think the Nigerian Super Falcons will ease their foot off the gas. However, on the stroke of 90+1, Folashade Florence added a 5th, rounding up a thumping win over the Zambian women’s football team.
Nigeria W will now face South Africa W in the semifinal. See the best Nigeria vs South Africa betting odds.
Can the Super Falcons Go on to Win?
Nigeria’s Super Falcons entered the WAFCON in style, winning their first two group games and playing a 0-0 draw in the final tie. After beating Tunisia 3-0 and overcoming the Mares of Botswana, they finished top of their group with a goalless tie against Algeria.
All eyes will now shift to Nigeria’s game against South Africa. Although Nigeria has been stellar up till this point, it will face no easy opponent in South Africa. Despite playing a goalless draw against the Senegalese Women’s football team, South Africa was able to go through, winning 4-1 on penalties.
Like Nigeria, South Africa finished top in the group stage, accumulating 7 points from two wins and one draw in three games.
After facing the challenge of Senegal. More people are convinced that the Banyana Banyana could go on to defend their title. Senegal, being a tough nut to crack, kept the defending champions goalless until penalties.
However, they too were unable to put a goal past the South African defence thanks to the heroics of Dlamini, whose shot-stopping skills were on show in the monumental clash.
She kept out powerful strikes from Senegal’s Nguenar Ndiaye and Mama Dio, whose strength and physicality remained a constant challenge for the South African defence. Senegal came close to putting one behind Dlamini in extra time. However, the goal was ruled out for offside.
Dlamini’s shot-stopping skills were called to question again during penalties as the gaffer made two crucial spot kick saves that sent South Africa to the semi-finals.
Nigeria W vs South Africa W Semifinal Clash
All eyes are on the semi-final clash between Banyana Banyana and tournament favorites Nigeria. The attacking combo of the Super Falcons will be a more difficult challenge for South Africa, who will look to cut off delivery to Nigeria’s strikers.
On the other end, Nigeria’s defence will hope to keep out South Africa’s high-scoring front. One thing is almost certain. The upcoming semi-final clash between South Africa and Nigeria could be the tournament’s decider.
If South Africa comes out on top, then they will very likely defend their title. However, if Nigeria beats South Africa, then they might be the next Wafcon Champions.
