Algeria made history on Sunday night as they held nine-time champions Nigeria to a goalless draw to seal a maiden quarter-final spot at the ongoing TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024.
The dramatic final Group B clash at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca saw the Super Falcons dominate proceedings but fail to break down a resolute Algerian defence marshalled by standout goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi.
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Despite Nigeria’s superiority in possession and chances, it was Algeria who emerged the night’s big winners. With Botswana defeating Tunisia 2-1 in the group’s other match, the North Africans’ hard-fought point was enough to secure second place in the group with five points – one behind table-toppers Nigeria.
Already assured of a quarter-final berth, Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu rotated his squad, handing opportunities to fresh faces. Still, Nigeria carved out multiple chances through Francisca Ordega, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Esther Okoronkwo, only to be denied by a stubborn Algerian backline.
N’Gazi delivered a stellar performance, most notably in added time when she pulled off a reflex save to keep out Okoronkwo’s bullet header, preserving her side’s clean sheet and dreams.
Nigeria, who came into the match with four goals scored and none conceded, were visibly frustrated by the stalemate. However, Madugu chose to see the positives.
“Every match gives us something new,” he told reporters post-match. “We rotated the squad, maintained a clean sheet, and learned to grind out results when the goals don’t come. It’s a valuable lesson.”
Algeria coach Farid Benstiti was full of praise for his team’s discipline and determination.
“We knew it would take a perfect defensive game to hold Nigeria. I’m proud of the girls – they showed heart and tactical maturity,” Benstiti said.
With the group stage concluded, Nigeria will now face Zambia – runners-up from Group A – in what promises to be a high-stakes quarter-final showdown. Algeria, meanwhile, head into uncharted territory with momentum and belief, having already defied expectations.
As the knockout rounds beckon, Algeria’s underdog story continues to captivate, and Nigeria will aim to sharpen their edge in pursuit of yet another continental crown.
