Nine-time champions Nigeria sent a strong warning to rivals at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with a commanding 5–0 victory over Zambia in their quarter-final clash on Friday night in Casablanca.
The Super Falcons, chasing a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, were simply unplayable as they outclassed a Zambian side that had impressed in the group stage. Goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Tosin Demehin, and Folasade Ijamilusi sealed what was arguably Nigeria’s most dominant performance in recent years.
The Falcons got off to a dream start, with Ohale heading home from an Okoronkwo free-kick just 100 seconds into the game — a carbon copy of her goal against Zambia 11 years ago. The early strike unsettled the Zambians, and the Nigerian side never looked back.
Midfield dynamo Jennifer Echegini was a thorn in Zambia’s flesh, dictating play alongside Halimatu Ayinde and the ever-creative Rasheedat Ajibade, who once again wore the captain’s armband with class and composure.
Nigeria doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when Echegini won possession and initiated a flowing move that saw Ajibade deliver a sublime cross to Okoronkwo, who chested down and calmly slotted into the far post.
Shortly before halftime, Zambia’s defensive line crumbled again as a long ball from Chiamaka Nnadozie was misjudged by a defender, allowing Ihezuo to break through and bury the third.
In the second half, Nigeria continued to press, and Tosin Demehin extended the lead with a well-timed header from a set piece. Rising star Folasade Ijamilusi, making her first start of the tournament, wrapped up the scoring with a composed finish off another Ajibade assist.
The emphatic result left Zambia stunned and exposed, despite coming into the match with high expectations following strong group stage performances.
Nigeria’s backline, marshalled by Demehin and Ohale, completely shut down the attacking duo of Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, both of whom had been tipped as major threats.
Ajibade, who was involved in two of the goals and led with maturity, was deservedly named Woman of the Match.
With this win, the Super Falcons march into the semi-finals for a record 13th time, where they will face the winner of Saturday’s quarter-final between holders South Africa and Senegal.
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