Falcons’ Effort Draws Praise and Realism

Nigeria’s Super Falcons may have booked their place in the WAFCON quarter-finals with a hard-fought 1–0 win over Botswana, but the mood around the squad remains cautiously optimistic.

The late goal from captain Chinwendu Ihezuo sealed the victory, drawing praise from fans and observers alike. FIFA acknowledged the team’s “resilience and composure,” spotlighting Nigeria as one of the key contenders in the tournament.

Despite the praise, Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu struck a note of realism in his post-match comments. “We’re happy to qualify, but we’re not where we want to be yet,” he said. “There are aspects of our game that need urgent attention, especially in the final third.”

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Botswana’s head coach Gaolethoo Nkutlwisang described the loss as “painful,” adding that her team had prepared thoroughly and felt they deserved at least a point. “Nigeria is a great team, but we had our chances and didn’t take them. That’s football,” she said.
The Falcons will now shift focus to their quarter-final clash, with hopes high—but expectations tempered by the knowledge that tougher tests lie ahead.