super falcons outclass copper queens to storm into wafcon semi-finals

5-0 BASHING

By BARNABAS ZULU
N
IGERIA’S Super Falcons delivered a commanding performance to thrash Zambia’s Copper Queens 5–0 in a one-sided Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-final played last night at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca.
The Super Falcons got off to a dream start, taking the lead inside two minutes through veteran defender Osinachi Ohale, who pounced on a loose ball following a free kick to slot home past Zambian goalkeeper Eunice Sakala.
Copper Queens, who had shown promise in the group stage, looked shell-shocked and failed to recover their shape as Nigeria continued to press.
In the 33rd minute, Esther Okoronkwo doubled their advantage with a composed finish after expertly controlling a long ball.
Just before halftime, Chinwendu Ihezuo added a third with a clinical strike that left the Queens’ defence in disarray, sending the Super Falcons into the break with a commanding 3–0 lead.
Zambia struggled to mount any meaningful attack in the second half, and it was Nigeria who remained on the front foot.
Defender Blessing Demehin made it 4–0 in the 68th minute, heading in from a well-delivered corner to put the game well beyond reach.
Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi put the icing on the cake in stoppage time, tapping in Nigeria’s fifth goal to cap off a ruthless attacking display.
The win was as dominant as it was symbolic – a reminder of Nigeria’s pedigree on the continent. The Super Falcons are chasing a record-extending 10th WAFCON title and now advance to the semi-finals with confidence and momentum.
Zambia, meanwhile, exit the tournament at the quarter-final stage. Despite their efforts in the group matches, the Copper Queens failed to register a single shot on target and were thoroughly outclassed in all departments.
Nigeria will now face the winner of the quarter-final clash between Senegal and South Africa in what promises to be a mouthwatering semi-final encounter.