Chinwendu Ihezuo’s 88th-minute strike sealed a hard-fought victory for Nigeria’s Super Falcons against Botswana at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco on Thursday.
The win marks Nigeria’s second consecutive triumph in the tournament, securing their place in the quarterfinals with six points from two matches.
Head coach Justin Madugu maintained the same starting lineup that defeated Tunisia but struggled to break down Botswana’s defense in the first half. Seeking a breakthrough, he introduced Esther Okoronkwo and Ihezuo in the second half, a move that ultimately proved decisive.
Ihezuo, who also scored in Nigeria’s 3-0 opening win against Tunisia, capitalized on a loose ball in the box to fire home the late winner. Okoronkwo and Ashleigh Plumptre came close earlier in the half but were denied by Botswana’s goalkeeper.
The Falcons will wrap up their Group C campaign against Algeria on Sunday as they aim to finish as group leaders.