The final Group B match of the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) witnessed a tightly contested encounter between Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Algeria’s Lady Fennecs, ending in a goalless draw. This result marked a historic moment for Algeria, securing their first-ever qualification for the tournament’s quarter-finals. Nigeria, having already qualified after their previous victory against Botswana, used the match as an opportunity to rest key players ahead of their upcoming quarter-final clash against Zambia. The match unfolded with contrasting approaches from the two teams. Algeria employed a defensive strategy, crowding their own half with players to stifle Nigeria’s attacking prowess. Nigeria, while fielding a slightly altered line-up, still showcased their intent to win, with Francisca Ordega proving to be a constant threat throughout the game. Despite several attempts on goal from both sides, the deadlock remained unbroken, resulting in a shared point.
Nigeria’s coach, Justine Madugu, made several strategic changes to the starting eleven, resting key players in anticipation of the crucial quarter-final match. Defenders Shukurat Oladipo, Miracle Usani, and Sikiratu Isah, midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini, and forward Francisca Ordega were introduced into the starting line-up. This rotation provided a chance for these players to gain valuable match experience while allowing regular starters to recover and prepare for the tougher challenges ahead. The decision reflected Nigeria’s confidence in their squad depth and their focus on the bigger picture of progressing deep into the tournament. The match against Algeria served as a platform to fine-tune strategies and assess the performance of the less experienced players, providing valuable insights for the coaching staff.
Algeria’s approach to the game was predominantly defensive, prioritizing a compact shape and disciplined positioning to neutralize Nigeria’s attacking threat. They deployed a strategy of packing their defensive third with players, limiting the space available for Nigeria’s forwards to maneuver and create scoring opportunities. This tactical approach effectively frustrated Nigeria’s attempts to penetrate their defense, forcing them to resort to long-range shots or intricate passing sequences that were often disrupted by the Algerian backline. While this defensive strategy limited Algeria’s own attacking opportunities, it proved successful in achieving their primary objective of earning a point, which was sufficient to secure their historic qualification for the quarter-finals.
Despite Algeria’s defensive approach, Nigeria created several chances throughout the match, showcasing their attacking intent. Francisca Ordega, who had also impressed in a recent friendly against Portugal, was particularly lively, creating opportunities with her runs and crosses. One such cross almost led to a goal just before half-time, but Ifeoma Onumonu’s subsequent effort was blocked before reaching the Algerian goalkeeper, Chloe N’gazi Boumrar. Jennifer Echegini, Ordega, and substitute Esther Okoronkwo also had attempts at goal, demonstrating Nigeria’s continued pressure on the Algerian defense. Despite these efforts, the Algerian goalkeeper and defense held firm, denying Nigeria a breakthrough.
The final whistle blew with the scoreline remaining goalless, confirming Algeria’s qualification alongside Nigeria. This result solidified Algeria’s historic achievement of reaching the WAFCON quarter-finals for the first time, a testament to their disciplined performance and tactical approach throughout the group stages. For Nigeria, the draw allowed them to conserve the energy of key players while still finishing at the top of Group B with seven points, showcasing their dominance and depth within the squad. This result set the stage for a highly anticipated quarter-final encounter against Zambia, with Nigeria aiming to continue their quest for a record-extending tenth WAFCON title.
The Group B standings after the conclusion of all matches saw Nigeria comfortably placed at the top with seven points, followed by Algeria with five points. Botswana and Tunisia occupied the third and fourth positions respectively, with three points and one point. This group stage provided a thrilling showcase of women’s football talent from across the continent, with Nigeria and Algeria emerging as the two teams to progress to the knockout stages. The tournament highlighted the growing competitiveness of women’s football in Africa and set the stage for an exciting quarter-final round.
