Nigeria claimed their second straight victory in Group B of the 2025 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, grinding out a 1-0 win over a stubborn Botswana side at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca on Thursday night.
The opening stages of the encounter were cagey, with both teams struggling to create any real goal-scoring opportunities.
However, Nigeria gradually asserted control, dominating possession as the midfield duo of Halimatu Ayinde and Rasheedat Ajibade began to pull the strings.
Despite their territorial dominance, the Super Falcons found it difficult to break down a well-organized Botswana defense. The first half lacked any major fireworks and ended goalless.
After the break, the match followed a similar pattern. Nigeria maintained pressure while Botswana threatened on the counter, looking to exploit any gaps at the back.
Goalkeeper Sedilame Boseja proved to be a key figure for the Mares, pulling off a number of vital saves to keep her side in the contest, particularly after the hour mark when Nigeria stepped up their attacking intent.
As full-time approached, the Super Falcons intensified their assault, with substitute Obonetse Rathari going close after curling a shot from the edge of the area, only to be denied by another brilliant Boseja save.
But just when it seemed Botswana might hold on for a draw, the deadlock was broken.
In the dying minutes of regulation time, Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo combined beautifully in the box, with Ihezuo squeezing the ball past the keeper at the near post to seal all three points.
The late strike was enough to seal the win, pushing Nigeria closer to the knockout rounds while maintaining their perfect start to the tournament.