Nigeria’s Super Falcons have dumped the Copper Queens of Zambia out of the delayed 2024 WAFCON tournament happening in Morocco.
It was a relentless onslaught and total annihilation of the Zambians, as Osinachi Ohale’s powerful header against the run of play unsettled their opponent, getting Nigeria ahead in the 2nd minute of the game.
A weak back pass in Nigeria’s box almost caused chaos in the 22nd minute, but it was Chiamaka Nnadozie’s bravery with a good clearance that relieved the pressure off the Falcons.
As the game grew tough, Barbra Banda made a dashing run behind Nigeria’s defense that almost sent shivers, but Chanda couldn’t make the most out of the ball crossed unto her path with a poor miss kick.
Rasheedat Ajibade’s lofty supply into the Zambian vital area found Esther Okoronkwo, who made a perfect chest control and smashed home to extend Nigeria’s lead in the half hour mark (33rd minute).
Manwhile, Chiwendu Ihezuo profited from a poor communication breakdown between Zambia’s centre pair of Mweemba and Maluba, as she bounced off with a bursting run to calmly strike past goalkeeper Musole, at the stroke of half time.
68th minute on from recess, Esther Dropped a cross deep into Zambia’s box, as Oluwatosin Blessing Demehin towered with a powerful header, connecting with the ball for Nigeria’s fourth goal.
Zambia’s effort to pressure Nigeria with just minutes left to play met strong resistance, as defense stalwarts, Demehin and Ohale remained composed and efficient, foiling every attack initiated by Barbra Banda and Kundananji.
Ijamilusi Folashade made it five for Nigeria. The Liaoning Baiye FC of China striker latched onto Rasheedat Ajibade’s cross that evades Zambia’s defense for a composed tap in.
With this result, Nigeria have sealed a semi final spot, and will face the winner in the game between South Africa and Senegal on Saturday.
Nigeria annihilates Zambia to book 2024 WAFCON semi final spot
Pius Idoko is a seasoned sports broadcaster with experience across TV, radio, print, and online media. He is the Publisher of The Continental News and currently serves as the Media Officer for Nigeria’s U13, U15, and U16 teams, as well as the official stadium announcer for all national teams under the NFF.
His career includes roles at Aso Radio/TV, Brila FM, and Cool/Wazobia/Nigeria Info FM, where he excelled as a sports presenter and football commentator. An award-winning journalist, he was recognized for excellence at the 2019 Dreamland Embassy of Hungary Cup.
Pius is also a voice-over artist who enjoys reading and singing.
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