Nigeria’s Super Falcons will face Botswana in their second group match of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), with the continental giants aiming to build on a strong start to their title chase.
The Group B clash is scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco.
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Falcons Fly High in Opener
The Super Falcons, led by interim head coach Justin Madugu, began their WAFCON campaign in dominant fashion, defeating Tunisia 3-0. Goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide, and Chiwendu Ihezuo set the tone for Nigeria’s quest to secure a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
Ranked 36th in the world by FIFA and the highest at this tournament, Nigeria enters this fixture as clear favourites.
With nine WAFCON titles and an unbeaten record in reaching every semifinal since the tournament’s inception, the Falcons remain the gold standard in African women’s football.
Botswana Looking to Bounce Back
Botswana’s women’s national team, the Mares, are making their second appearance at WAFCON after debuting in 2022. They began their 2024 campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Algeria and will be desperate to register their first points of the tournament.
Under head coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwe, the team is known for its defensive discipline, often sitting deep in a low block while relying on swift counterattacks. Refilwe Tholakele, the young striker and team’s standout player, will be key to their hopes of breaching Nigeria’s backline.
Head-to-Head: Nigeria vs Botswana
This will be only the second-ever meeting between the two nations at WAFCON. Their first encounter came in the group stage of the 2022 edition, where Nigeria recorded a comfortable 2-0 win courtesy of goals from Christy Ucheibe and Ifeoma Onumonu.
Team News
Botswana will be boosted by the return of Lone Gaofetoge and Nandi Mahlasela, both of whom missed the opening match due to suspension. Their inclusion will strengthen the midfield and defensive structure of the side.
For Nigeria, there are no injury or suspension concerns. All players are available for selection, giving Coach Madugu a full squad to choose from as he looks to rotate or maintain momentum.
What to Expect
Given the gulf in quality, history, and current form, Nigeria will be expected to dominate possession and create plenty of chances. Botswana, meanwhile, will likely look to contain the Falcons and hit on the break.
A win for Nigeria will all but secure a place in the quarterfinals and continue their march toward a 10th WAFCON crown. For Botswana, it’s a chance to prove they can compete with the very best on the continent.
Time and How to Watch
The match will be shown on Super Sports, CAF You Tube Channel, ams Afro Sports .
The kick time is 8:pm in Nigeria , 19:00 GMT.
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