WAFCON: Super Falcon Top Group Despite Goalless Draw against Algeria

The Super Falcons of Nigeria were left to rue a night of missed opportunities after they were held to a goalless draw by the Algerian women’s national team in their final Group B match at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

Despite dominating virtually every statistical category possession, shots, corners, and touches in the opposition box Nigeria failed to find the breakthrough, leaving coach Justin Madugu’s side frustrated and with plenty to ponder ahead of the knockout stage.

From the outset, the Super Falcons took control of the game, registering 24 shots to Algeria’s solitary effort. Nigeria enjoyed 55% possession, completed over 300 accurate passes, and created several promising openings. Yet, they managed just two shots on target, underlining a lack of precision and composure in the final third.

A key turning point came in the 54th minute when Esther Okoronkwo replaced Ifeyinwa Onumonu in a bid to inject fresh energy into the attack. Subsequent substitutions saw Folashade Ijamilusi and Rinsola Babajide introduced to stretch the Algerian defense with pace and width. However, Algeria remained compact and disciplined, with their goalkeeper making two vital saves to preserve the clean sheet.

Defensively, Nigeria were solid and largely untroubled, conceding only one off-target attempt. But their inability to convert dominance into goals proved costly, as the team failed to capitalize on their overwhelming superiority.

As the Super Falcons head into the knockout rounds, Coach Madugu faces lingering questions over his side’s attacking efficiency. While the performance showed control, purpose, and defensive discipline, the lack of end product will be a central concern moving forward.