By Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu
The Super Falcons of Nigeria put up a breathtaking display of dominance on Friday evening, dismantling the Copper Queens of Zambia 5-0 in a thrilling quarter-final encounter at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
It was a five-star performance from Madugu Justin’s ladies, as goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Blessing Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi sealed a comprehensive victory, booking Nigeria a well-deserved ticket to the semi-finals of the tournament.
The rout began early, with dependable defender Osinachi Ohale drawing first blood in the 3rd minute with a clinical header from a free-kick. Esther Okoronkwo doubled the lead in the 33rd minute after breaking free to slot the ball calmly past the Zambian goalkeeper.
Just before the break, Chinwendu Ihezuo made it three, finishing off a flowing move with a powerful strike to send the Nigerian bench into wild jubilation.
Zambia, who looked shell-shocked and overwhelmed, found no answer to Nigeria’s high press and fluid attacking play. The second half continued in similar fashion as Blessing Demehin added the fourth goal in the 68th minute with a brilliant finish after a goalmouth scramble.
As if to put the icing on the cake, substitute Folashade Ijamilusi struck in stoppage time (90+1’) with a stunning effort, capping off what can only be described as a ruthless display of football artistry.
The result not only sends Nigeria into the last four but also solidifies their status as the most decorated and feared side in African women’s football.
The Super Falcons will now prepare to face the winner between Senegal and South Africa in what promises to be another blockbuster semi-final clash.