Nigeria’s Super Falcons are poised to secure an early spot in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as they prepare to face Botswana today, Thursday, July 10, 2025.
Fresh from a commanding 3-0 win over Tunisia in their opening Group B match, the Super Falcons - Africa’s most decorated women’s football team - are brimming with confidence as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending 10th continental title in Morocco.
A victory against Botswana would guarantee Nigeria a place in the last eight, marking a significant milestone in their campaign and bringing them one step closer to lifting the trophy once again.
The team’s impressive start has set the tone for what promises to be another memorable tournament for the reigning champions.
With momentum on their side and their eyes firmly on the prize, the Super Falcons are determined to maintain their winning streak and make a strong statement in the group stage.
Goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and Chinwendu Ihezuo during their opening game on Monday ensured Justin Madugu’s team got to a winning start in the women’s championship.
According to a report of Channels Television, the Super Falcons, parading a team of experienced and youthful players, will expect to extend their sterling form at the WAFCON when they file out against the Mares at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
Nigeria have no injury worries going into the game and are focused on doing the job against Botswana, the report added.
It noted tha ahead of the match, Madugu, whose side defeated the East Africans in the last edition in 2022, says the team is taking the competition one game at a time.
“As I said before the commencement of the tournament, we remain focused on our Mission X, and we believe that victory over Botswana is a huge possibility,” the coach said in a press conference.
“We are taking it one match at a time without taking any team for granted,” Madugu told journalists ahead of the clash.
The report analyses the encounter thus:
Three years ago, the Mares were beaten by Nigeria, thanks to goals from Ifeoma Onumonu (21’) and Christy Ucheibe (48’).
Botswana, though, lost two games in that competition, they finished as one of the two best third-place teams, earning them a place in the quarter-final, where they were defeated by eventual finalist Morocco.
However, the dream of another quarter-final place is now looking like a tall order for the Mares. Having lost 1-0 against Algeria in their first game, the match vs the Super Falcons is an uphill task for Alex Malete’s side.
Botswana Unshaken by Super Falcons’ Pedigree
Going into Thursday’s game, Botswana remain unfazed by the pedigree of their opponent.
Malete respects the nine-time African champions but believes his team will give Nigeria a run for their money on the pitch.
“We’re confident and positive that we can qualify for the quarterfinals. Everyone in the group has a strong belief that we can pull through and make it to the next round,” the 35-year-old gaffer said ahead of Thursday’s clash.
“Most importantly, we believe in each other and believe in our system and structure. The belief is stronger than the pressure and the doubt.
“So we are confident that should we execute the game plan tomorrow, should we play with heart, desire, commitment, and patience tomorrow, we should be able to get a good result and make the game competitive,” he added.
Nigeria vs Botswana WAFCON Head-To-Head
Thursday’s match is the second time the Super Falcons will play Botswana. The first time was when the Mares made their debut in 2022. Nigeria won 2-0 in the Group C clash then. In that game in Rabat, Botswana were taught a harsh lesson, getting only 26% in possession.
Nigeria vs Botswana WAFCON 2024 Match Details
Venue: Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca
Date: Thursday, July 10
Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. (Nigeria time)
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