Nigeria’s Super Falcons wrapped up their group stage campaign at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with a goalless draw against a determined Algerian side at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
Despite dominating possession and firing 24 shots, the reigning African champions failed to find a breakthrough in a game that showcased their attacking struggles but also underlined their defensive solidity.
Justin Madugu’s side had already secured qualification to the quarterfinals after comfortable wins over Tunisia (3-0) and Botswana (1-0), and were aiming to seal a perfect group-stage record.
But Algeria, thrashed 6-1 on aggregate in friendlies last year, came with a different mindset—organised, disciplined, and inspired by a stellar goalkeeping performance.
Madugu rotated his starting XI heavily, making eight changes from the previous match. WAFCON debuts were handed to Jumoke Alani Usani, Shukurat Oladipo, and goalkeeper Christy Ucheibe, while Chinwendu Ihezuo led the line in place of regular starter Asisat Oshoala.
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Despite their control 55% possession and wave after wave of attacks Nigeria lacked cutting edge. Long-range efforts and poor decision-making in the final third meant Algerian goalkeeper Imene Merrouche was rarely troubled.
Substitute Esther Okoronkwo provided some spark off the bench, impressing once again with her sharp movement and link-up play, but her impact wasn’t enough to force a late winner.
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The result sees Nigeria finish as Group B winners with seven points, maintaining a perfect defensive record with no goals conceded. Algeria, with five points, also progress to the knockout stage as runners-up.
Nigeria will now face Zambia Group A’s second-placed side in the quarterfinals.
