Women's AFCON 2024: Nigeria already into quarter-finals, Algeria held
Nigeria booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Women's AFCON thanks to a narrow but precious win over Botswana
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Tunisia hold Algeria
Winners against Botswana on matchday one, Algeria went into this second round of group games at the 2024 Women's AFCON intent on winning and securing their place in the quarter-finals. But the Desert Warriors ran into a Tunisia side who were united and solid at the back, keeping a clean sheet even though they were under pressure for the whole match, with just one shot on target to 6 for the Algerians.
In the end, the two sides shared a goalless draw, leaving Tunisia with the chance to go after a place as one of the best third-placed teams on the final matchday against Botswana.
Read also: Women's AFCON 2024: Morocco and Zambia move closer to qualification
Nigeria made to work hard
The Super Falcons will have imagined every possible scenario except this one. Facing a Botswana side who had lost to Algeria on matchday one (0-1), Nigeria were expected to win comfortably. But Asisat Oshoala and her team-mates had to battle hard for a late win, which came thanks to Ihezuo Chinwendu, who got in the way of a ball at point-blank range to hand the Super Falcons the three points and a place in the quarter-finals.
With 6 points, Nigeria lead Group B and are certain to finish 2nd in their group at worst. As a result, Rasheedat Ajibade's team-mates are already through to the quarter-finals. The other automatic qualifying spot will be settled in a head-to-head played out at a distance between Algeria and Tunisia.