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The Super Falcons of Nigeria sealed top spot in Group B at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) following a goalless draw with Algeria in Casablanca. The result also ensured Algeria progressed to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history, setting up a last-eight tie with the Group C runners-up.
Elsewhere in the group, Botswana boosted their hopes of qualification as one of the two best third-placed teams, coming from behind to beat Tunisia 2-1. Yesmin Khanchouch gave the Carthage Eagles an early lead in the 12th minute, but Lesego Radiakanyo’s second-half equaliser set the stage for Gaonyadiwe Ontlametse’s dramatic 96th-minute winner.
Sunday’s results also confirmed quarter-final spots for defending champions South Africa and Mali ahead of Monday’s decisive Group C matches. South Africa face Mali in Oujda, while Ghana meet Tanzania in Berkane, with both needing victories to advance.
Super Falcons Blunted by Resilient Algeria
Nigeria, chasing a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, ended the group stage unbeaten, collecting seven points and not conceding a single goal. However, their lack of attacking sharpness raised eyebrows ahead of Friday’s quarter-final clash against Zambia.
Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, the Super Falcons struggled to break down a compact Algerian defence led by standout goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi. Rasheedat Ajibade and Jennifer Echegini looked the most dangerous for Nigeria, but clear-cut chances were few and far between.
Nigeria pressed hard for a winner late on, with Echegini curling a shot just wide in the 89th minute, but Algeria held firm to earn a valuable point.
Algeria’s Historic Progress
For Algeria, the result capped a historic group campaign. Though they scored just once—Ghoutia Karchouni’s goal against Botswana—their resolute defence saw them through to the knockout stage without conceding.
Coach Farid Benstiti’s side finished second in Group B with five points and will play their quarter-final on Saturday. Their milestone qualification marks a new chapter for Algerian women’s football, proving they can compete with the continent’s elite.