2024 WAFCON: Ruthless Super Falcons crush Banda’s Zambia 5-0

‎Nigeria’s Super Falcons Friday showed Zambia that they are the most successful team in women’s football on the African continent in the first of the quarter- finals of the 2024 Women’s African Cup of Nations in Morocco.
‎The Justine Madugu-tutored ladies took a major step toward securing their 10th African title with a dominant 5-0 victory over Zambia despite the boasts by the Southern African side that with their taliswoman, Barbra Banda they cut the Nigerian side to shreds
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‎Goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi powered the Super Falcons to a commanding victory over the Copper Queens at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
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‎The nine-time African champions entered the match with a strong head-to-head record, but the presence of reigning African Player of the Year, Barbra Banda, posed a potential threat to Nigeria’s hopes.
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‎However, it was Justine Madugu’s side who seized the initiative just two minutes in, as defender Osinachi Ohale rose above her markers to head in Esther Okoronkwo’s well-placed free-kick, leaving goalkeeper Petronella Musole with no chance.
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‎Okoronkwo doubled the Super Falcons’ lead in the 33rd minute, finishing off a swift attacking move with a precise strike into the bottom corner, leaving the Copper Queens’ goalkeeper with no chance.
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‎In a goal-filled first half, Nora Hauptle’s side conceded a third when Ihezuo capitalised on a loose ball in the box, calmly slotting home a left-footed finish that all but sealed the match.
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‎Nigeria’s dominance carried on into the 68th minute, with Demehin extending the lead to 4-0. Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi then wrapped up the rout in the closing stages, finishing off a fine assist from Rasheedat Ajibade.
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‎With this victory, the West Africans kept their pursuit of a record-extending 10th African title alive. They will face the winner of the South Africa vs Senegal clash for a place in the final.