Nigeria’s Super Falcons will look to finish the group stage of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a perfect record as they face Algeria today in Casablanca.
With two wins from two and qualification to the quarterfinals already sealed, coach Justine Madugu’s side will be hoping to maintain momentum when they take on the Foxes at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
The Falcons began their WAFCON campaign in commanding fashion, cruising past Tunisia 3–0 in their opening Group B encounter. Goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide and Chiwendu Ihezuo underlined their dominance. In their second game, Nigeria edged Botswana 1–0, with Ihezuo once again proving decisive by netting a late winner.
Speaking ahead of the Algeria clash, coach Madugu hinted at possible squad rotation to manage fitness levels following the physically demanding tie against Botswana.
“Every game has its own strategy. Sometimes it works, sometimes it does not,” Madugu said. “That is why we make changes when things are not working. Not every player will have a good day, but we got better in the second half and converted one of our chances.”
Nigeria head into the game with a fully fit squad and no suspensions. That opens the door for fringe players to stake a claim, although regular names such as goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre are still expected to feature. Ifeoma Onumonu could be handed a start in attack as Madugu balances performance with squad management.
The Super Falcons are the only team at this year’s tournament with a 100 percent record so far and will be keen to make it three wins out of three to top the group with nine points.
Algeria, meanwhile, have four points from their two games. A narrow 1–0 win over Botswana and a goalless draw with Tunisia have left them needing at least a point to guarantee progression to the next round.
Should Algeria falter, Tunisia could leapfrog them into second place with a win over Botswana in the other group fixture, depending on the goal margin.
Nigeria remain firm favourites going into today’s clash, backed by their experience and pedigree as nine-time African champions. A win would further boost their confidence heading into the knockout stages, where the road to a record-extending 10th title continues.
