Nigeria and Morocco Advance to WAFCON Semifinals with Dominant Performances
The 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) witnessed two emphatic victories as Nigeria and Morocco both secured their spots in the semi-finals, showcasing their strength and determination on the continental stage.
In a commanding display, Nigeria’s Super Falcons overwhelmed Zambia with a resounding 5-0 victory at Stade Larbi Zaouli. The nine-time champions maintained their unbeaten record while demonstrating their attacking prowess. The match started at a blistering pace, with centre-back Osinachi Ohale giving Nigeria an early lead just two minutes in, heading home a pinpoint free-kick from Esther Okoronkwo.
The Super Falcons continued to assert their dominance, doubling their lead in the 33rd minute when Okoronkwo finished a well-crafted move with a composed strike. Zambia, who had shown promise in the group stages, struggled to cope with Nigeria’s relentless offense, and before the half-time whistle, Chinwendu Ihezuo added a third, capitalizing on a loose ball in the box.
Despite the efforts of Zambia’s captain Barbra Banda and Grace Chanda, the Copper Queens were unable to break through Nigeria’s disciplined defense, anchored by Ashleigh Plumptre. Nigeria’s control continued into the second half, with Oluwatosin Demehin scoring the fourth goal in the 68th minute, and Folashade Ijamilusi sealing the victory with a fifth in stoppage time.
With this emphatic win, Nigeria’s quest for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title remains very much alive, as they await their semi-final opponents with growing confidence.
Meanwhile, the hosts Morocco also impressed in their quarter-final clash against Mali, securing a 3-1 victory at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Ibtissam Jraïdi opened the scoring early in the 7th minute, finishing calmly after a setup from Sakina Ouzraoui Diki. Morocco maintained control for much of the first half, with Mali unable to capitalize on their attacking opportunities.
The Atlas Lionesses extended their lead in the 77th minute when Jraïdi converted a penalty after substitute Sanaâ Mssoudy was fouled in the box. As Mali pressed for a comeback, they were caught on the counter, allowing Kenza Chapelle to score a stunning low drive from outside the area in the 89th minute, making it 3-0.
Although Mali managed to pull one back with a penalty from Aïssata Traoré in stoppage time, it was too little, too late, as Morocco’s solid performance earned them a place in the final four.
