The Super Falcons of Nigeria delivered their most devastating performance yet at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, dismantling Zambia 5-0 in a thrilling quarterfinal clash at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
Coming into the match with a flawless defensive record and unmatched experience, Nigeria wasted no time showing their superiority. Barely two minutes had passed when the Falcons made their intentions clear. Osinachi Ohale, rising highest in the box, connected perfectly with Esther Okoronkwo’s free-kick delivery to give Nigeria the early advantage.
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It was a moment that set the tone for what became a commanding display of power, pace, and precision.
By the 33rd minute, the Super Falcons had doubled their lead through Okoronkwo, who capped off a sweeping team move with a composed low finish into the bottom corner. Her performance underlined her growing influence in the tournament, playing the role of both provider and scorer.
Chinwendu Ihezuo made it 3-0 just before halftime, reacting quickest to a defensive mix-up in the Zambian box and slotting home with a confident left-footed finish. Zambia, known for their attacking flair, were stunned and disoriented.
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Despite the presence of stars like Barbra Banda and Grace Chanda, the Copper Queens looked disconnected in attack, often caught offside or restricted to hopeful long-range efforts. Nigeria’s backline, marshalled expertly by Ashleigh Plumptre, remained organized, calm, and unyielding.
The second half brought no relief for Zambia. Oluwatosin Demehin added a fourth in the 68th minute, bundling the ball in from close range after another chaotic set piece. The Super Falcons’ set-piece routines proved too much for Zambia to handle.
In stoppage time, substitute Folashade Ijamilusi put the icing on the cake. After a clever run from Rasheedat Ajibade, Ijamilusi found space to tap in the fifth goal, sealing Nigeria’s biggest win of the tournament so far.
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Zambia’s Frustration and Nigeria’s Rising Confidence
Zambia entered the tournament hoping to build on their bronze medal finish in 2022. But against a ruthless Nigerian side hungry for a record-extending tenth WAFCON title, they were second best throughout the encounter. Their attack, usually fluid and creative, faltered against the tactical and physical strength of the Super Falcons.
In contrast, Nigeria’s performance was a statement of intent. Clinical in attack, rock-solid in defense, and full of belief, the Falcons now advance to the semi-finals with their clean sheet intact and momentum on their side.
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As the tournament heads into its final stages, Nigeria remains a firm favourite, not just because of their record but because of how well they’re playing as a unit. Their mix of experience, youthful energy, and tactical balance is proving too much for any opponent so far.
The Super Falcons now await their semifinal opponents, but one thing is clear—they are not just chasing a title; they are setting the standard.
Picture Credit: Super Falcons Show X Page
