Nigeria’s Super Falcons became the first team to book a place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after edging Botswana 1-0 to maintain a perfect start to their campaign. With two wins from two matches, the nine-time champions are through to the knockout stage with a game to spare.
Chinwendu Ihezuo was the hero once again, striking late in the match to secure a hard-fought victory in a match that saw Nigeria dominate but struggle to break down a resilient Botswana defence.
Elsewhere, Matchday 2 delivered more drama, goals, and shifts in group dynamics.
In Group A, Zambia picked up their first win in thrilling fashion, edging Senegal 3-2 in one of the most entertaining games of the tournament so far. Captain Barbra Banda bagged a brace while Rachael Kundananji also found the net, inspiring the Copper Queens to a crucial victory that keeps their quarterfinal hopes alive.
Hosts Morocco also registered their first win, defeating DR Congo 4-2 in Rabat. Skipper Ghizlane Chebbak led by example with a stunning hat-trick, while Yasmin M’rabet added a fourth from the penalty spot to keep the Atlas Lionesses well in the hunt for qualification.
In Group B, Algeria and Tunisia played out a tense 0-0 draw in a match defined by tactical discipline but little cutting edge in the final third. The result leaves both North African sides with everything to play for in the final round.
Over in Group C, debutants Tanzania made headlines, holding defending champions South Africa to a memorable 1-1 draw. Opa Clement gave the Twiga Stars a shock lead in the 24th minute, before Banyana Banyana salvaged a point through Bambanani Mbane in the 70th minute. It’s a historic first WAFCON point for Tanzania and a strong statement of intent against one of Africa’s best.
Mali and Ghana also played to a 1-1 draw, with Aissata Traore equalising for Mali after Ghana had taken an early lead.
Today’s Fixtures (Final Round Begins):
Group A
DR Congo vs Zambia – Stade Moulay Hassan, 18:00 EAT
Morocco vs Senegal – Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, 21:00 EAT.
