5 key takeaways from Nigeria’s goalless draw with Algeria as Super Falcons set up Zambia clash
The Super Falcons may not have soared past Algeria in Casablanca, but their goalless draw on Sunday night brought plenty of talking points.
Nigeria topped Group B at WAFCON 2024 with seven points, yet the stalemate raised questions about selection choices, tactical sharpness, and the road ahead.
Here are five things Soccernet.ng learned from the match.
1. Esther Okoronkwo must start going forward
It’s becoming increasingly difficult to justify Esther Okoronkwo’s exclusion from the starting XI.
Super Falcons star Esther Okoronkwo. Photo by IMAGO
After winning Woman of the Match against Tunisia and providing a vital assist versus Botswana, her energy, link-up play, and goal threat are obvious.
When introduced in the second half against Algeria, the AFC Toronto forward immediately injected urgency into Nigeria’s attack. With Nigeria chasing a win, Okoronkwo looked like the one player capable of unlocking a compact Algerian defence. It begs the question: would the result have been different had she started?
2. Respect Algeria, they earned this draw
Credit where it’s due.
Algeria were battered 6-1 on aggregate by Nigeria across two friendlies last year but arrived in Casablanca with a plan. They defended deep, stayed compact, and were buoyed by a sensational performance from their goalkeeper.
WAFCON 2024: Nigeria Super Falcons vs Algeria
Not only did they frustrate the nine-time champions, they made history by qualifying for their first-ever WAFCON quarterfinal. For a side still developing at continental level, this is a massive leap forward.
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3. Another clean sheet as Falcons’ defence remains rock solid
Three matches. Zero goals conceded. That’s the third time in WAFCON history Nigeria have completed the group stage without conceding, a feat previously achieved in 1998 and 2014 – both title-winning campaigns.
Chiamaka Nnadozie was assured in goal while Oluwatosin Demehin marshalled a newlook defence brilliantly.
Despite eight changes to the starting line-up, Nigeria’s defensive structure held firm, which bodes well for the knockout rounds.
4. Falcons lacked final-third precision
Nigeria dominated possession and had far more shots on goal, but lacked the killer instinct in front of goal.
Chinwendu Ihezuo worked tirelessly but couldn’t convert, while crosses and through balls too often found Algerian boots.
Super Falcons star Chinwendu Ihezuo vs Algeria
The Falcons’ attack, despite boasting experience and flair, must find sharper execution, particularly against a Zambia side that will punish wastefulness.
5. Dangerous Zambia up next
Nigeria’s quarter-final opponent, Zambia, have emerged as serious contenders.
Led by the electric duo of Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, both with three goals each, the Copper Queens boast the competition’s most prolific forward line.
They’re fast, fearless, and physical. Nigeria will need to be at their absolute best to avoid an upset in what promises to be the tie of the round.
