It’s the calm before the knockout storm in Morocco, but Nigeria’s Super Falcons still have business to finish
Already safely through to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations after two group-stage wins, the Super Falcons now face a spirited Algerian side with ambitions of their own, Soccernet.ng reports.
For Nigeria, Group B’s final fixture is more than just a formality.
With two wins from two, 3-0 against Tunisia and a narrow 1-0 over Botswana, Justin Madugu’s side are sitting pretty on six points.
However, topping Group B remains crucial. It offers a likely softer draw in the quarterfinals and avoids a potential early clash with WAFCON powerhouses from Group A or C.
Three wins from three would not only boost morale but also reinforce Nigeria’s status as tournament favourites.
On the other hand, Algeria, the surprise package of the group, are quietly chasing history.
The North Africans have never advanced beyond the group phase at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations but that could change with a strong showing here.
The Algerians have surprised many with their composure and organisation. A gritty 1-0 win against Botswana followed by a goalless stalemate with Tunisia leaves them on four points: unbeaten, and yet to concede a goal.
It’s already their best-ever group stage performance in WAFCON history. In their five previous appearances, they have never collected more than three points or finished higher than third in the group.
A draw will likely see them qualify; a win would send shockwaves through African women’s football.
For head coach Farid Benstiti and his players, Sunday is an opportunity to finally break through the glass ceiling and earn Algeria’s first-ever quarterfinal spot.
Head to Head: Super Falcons vs Algeria
Historically, this fixture has been one-way traffic.
Nigeria defeated Algeria 4-0 in 2004 and 6-0 in 2006, two editions they went on to win.
Even in more recent contests, the Super Falcons have remained dominant. In October 2024, both sides met for two friendlies in Nigeria.
Rasheedat Ajibade starred with a brace in a 2-0 win in the first game, while Folashade Ijamilusi stunned Algeria with a hat-trick in a 4-1 follow-up victory.
Algeria will take courage from how they competed in spells of those games, but the numbers are lopsided. Nigeria have scored 16 goals in four recent meetings with Algeria, conceding just one.
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Team news
With qualification secured, rotation is expected.
Chinwendu Ihezuo, who scored the late winner against Botswana, looks set to start ahead of former Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala, who may be rested.
Ijamilusi, who tore through Algeria last October, is in line for her first start, while Jennifer Echegini and Christy Ucheibe could freshen up the midfield. Youngster Chioma Okafor may finally get her WAFCON debut from the bench.
Deborah Abiodun is suspended after collecting two yellow cards, meaning Nigeria’s midfield reshuffle is not just tactical, but necessary.
Francisca Ordega, a veteran of many tournaments, is also expected to feature after being rested so far.
Nigeria’s predicted XI (4-3-3)
- Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie
- Defenders: Oladipo, Demehin, Ohale, Plumptre
- Midfielders: Ucheibe, Ayinde, Echegini
- Forwards: Okoronkwo, Ihezuo, Ijamilusi
Match details
- Fixture: Nigeria vs Algeria
- Tournament: 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Group B)
- Venue: Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat, Morocco
- Date: Sunday, July 13, 2025
- Kick-off: 8:00 pm Nigerian time
Prediction
On form, pedigree, and squad depth, Nigeria are the clear favourites, even with rotation. But Algeria’s hunger, defensive resilience, and growing confidence cannot be underestimated.
Expect a much tighter game than the history books suggest. However, the Super Falcons’ quality and tournament experience should just about carry them over the line.
- Predicted scoreline: Nigeria 2-0 Algeria
