Nigeria advanced to the Women's Africa Cup of Nations semifinals after defeating Zambia by a five-goal margin at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Friday. The Super Falcons maintained their perfect defensive record while delivering their most impressive attacking performance of the tournament. Osinachi Ohale opened the scoring with a header after two minutes from Esther Okoronkwo's free kick. Okoronkwo added the second goal in the 33rd minute with a composed finish into the bottom corner. Chinwendu Ihezuo scored the third before halftime to effectively end the contest.
The nine-time champions controlled the second half against the overwhelmed Copper Queens. Oluwatosin Demehin headed home the fourth goal in the 68th minute from another set piece. Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi completed the rout during stoppage time after good work by Rasheedat Ajibade. Zambia's captain, Barbara Banda, and Grace Chanda failed to replicate their group stage form against Nigeria's disciplined defense. The result eliminated Zambia from the tournament and moved Nigeria closer to a record tenth continental title.
The nine-time champions controlled the second half against the overwhelmed Copper Queens. Oluwatosin Demehin headed home the fourth goal in the 68th minute from another set piece. Substitute Folashade Ijamilusi completed the rout during stoppage time after good work by Rasheedat Ajibade. Zambia's captain, Barbara Banda, and Grace Chanda failed to replicate their group stage form against Nigeria's disciplined defense. The result eliminated Zambia from the tournament and moved Nigeria closer to a record tenth continental title.
