Ihezuo’s Late Strike Lifts Nigeria to WAFCON Quarterfinals After Gritty Battle with Botswana
Chinwendu Ihezuo scored in the 89th minute to seal Nigeria’s place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a 1-0 win over Botswana on Thursday night in Casablanca.
The Super Falcons struggled to break down a disciplined Botswana side, which held off wave after wave of pressure until Ihezuo delivered the decisive moment just before stoppage time at Stade Larbi Zauoli.
Nigeria dominated possession from the outset but couldn’t convert their control into clear chances. Botswana’s goalkeeper and captain Sedilame Boseja made several crucial saves to keep the match level for most of the night.
Despite coming off a comfortable 3-0 win over Tunisia, Nigeria found Botswana a far tougher opponent. Forwards Asisat Oshoala and Toni Payne both missed key opportunities in the first half, while Botswana came close through Laone Moloi and Balothany Johannes on quick counter-attacks.
At halftime, Nigeria’s head coach Justin Madugu made three changes, introducing Christy Ucheibe, Esther Okoronkwo, and Chinwendu Ihezuo. The substitutes added pace and energy, and the game gradually tilted further in Nigeria’s favor.
Deborah Abiodun and Ashleigh Plumptre played key roles in Nigeria’s second-half resurgence. Ihezuo nearly scored with a header in the 54th minute before finally striking the winner after a fluid team build-up in the 89th.
“It was a tough match, but we stayed focused and believed,” Ihezuo said after the game. “I was ready when the chance came.”
Boseja, who had denied multiple efforts, could not stop the final blow. Botswana, worn down by 88 minutes of resolute defending, had no reply in the dying moments.
Nigeria now tops Group B with two wins, six points, and no goals conceded. Botswana remains winless and must defeat Tunisia in their final group match to stay in the competition.
Though Nigeria’s attack took time to click, their squad depth and late-game composure proved decisive. Botswana exits the match with heads high, having delivered a resilient performance despite the loss.
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