Nigeria delivered a statement performance on Friday night in Casablanca, crushing Zambia 5–0 to book their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The nine-time champions were in scintillating form at Stade Larbi Zaouli, extending their unbeaten and unbreached run in the tournament with a clinical display that left the Copper Queens stunned and eliminated.
Centre-back Osinachi Ohale opened the floodgates just two minutes into the encounter, powering home a header from Esther Okoronkwo’s inch-perfect free-kick.
The early goal set the tone for a one-sided contest.
Okoronkwo, one of Nigeria’s standout performers on the night, doubled the lead in the 33rd minute with a composed low finish after a flowing team move, before Chinwendu Ihezuo capitalised on a loose ball to make it 3–0 before the break.
Zambia, who had impressed in the group stage with attacking flair led by captain Barbra Banda and Grace Chanda, struggled to find rhythm.
Their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by Nigeria’s well-organised defence, marshalled by Ashleigh Plumptre.
The Super Falcons continued their dominance in the second half, and Oluwatosin Demehin added a fourth in the 68th minute, heading in from close range after another dangerous set-piece.
Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi completed the rout in stoppage time, finishing off a swift move initiated by Rasheedat Ajibade.
Zambia’s attacking threat was largely neutralised, with Banda caught offside multiple times and Chanda limited to speculative long-range efforts.
The result cements Nigeria’s place as favourites to lift a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
The Super Falcons will now turn their attention to the semi-finals, brimming with confidence and yet to concede a single goal in the tournament.