Nigeria and Botswana head into their second Group C clash of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with very different objectives, but only one can control the game’s narrative on Thursday night at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria, nine-time champions and tournament giants, made light work of Tunisia with a 3–0 win. A second victory would guarantee them a spot in the quarterfinals. Confidence is high in their camp, and history is firmly on their side.
For Botswana, it’s already a fight to stay afloat. A narrow 1–0 defeat to Algeria has put their tournament hopes in jeopardy. The Mares must now find a way to stop Nigeria’s firepower or risk an early exit.
Botswana reached the WAFCON quarterfinals for the first time in 2022 after a debut tournament win over Burundi. But facing Nigeria’s experience and legacy is a far greater test.
The Super Falcons remain Africa’s most successful team, winning nine of twelve WAFCON editions. As Thursday approaches, all signs point to a high-stakes encounter where pedigree meets desperation.
