WAFCON 2022: Super Falcons resuscitate title defense with victory over Botswana

Nigeria suffered a disappointing loss to South Africa in their opening fixture, but their dream of a tenth title was restored with a victory over Botswana

The Super Falcons of Nigeria bounced back from their disappointing opening day loss to South Africa to secure a vital 2-0 victory over Botswana in their second game of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria’s hopes of securing a tenth WAFCON title suffered a dent after they lost 2-1 to South Africa in their opening match.

However, they had the luck of playing minos Botswana in their second game of the competition.

Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum handed Francesca Ordega a  starting shirt as a replacement for Asisat Oshoala who got injured in the first game.

Nigeria controlled the game from the blast of the whistle, pegging the Mares back and trying to exploit open spaces. They got their breakthrough in the 21st minute as Ifeoma Onumonu latched onto a pass from Ayinde to give Nigeria the lead.

The nine-time African champions had a few close shaves but were unable to take their chances.

Chiamaka Nnadozie was a solid rock in goal as she made some great saves in the first half to deny Botswana.

The second half started smoothly for Nigeria, as substitute Christy Ucheibe calmly converted from close range to give the Super Falcons a two-goal lead.

The nine-time African champions took control of the game, besieged Botswana, and poured attack upon attack. Nigeria mesmerized the Mares with scintillating dribbles and beautiful passing.

The Mares failed to reply. They had nothing to offer in the second period, and they made the tie look like the mismatch it was originally expected to be.

Still, the Super Falcons failed to take their chances. They saw out the 2-0 victory at the Moulay Hassan Stadium. The win ensures that Nigeria climb to second in the group.

Up next is the final group game against Burundi on Sunday, who are yet to pick a point from their two games.