Football
AWCON: Nigeria defeat Botswana to revive hope
The Super Falcons of Nigeria recorded a 2-0 victory over Botswana in Thursday’s encounter at the ongoing Africa Women’s Cup of Nations (AWCON).
Nigeria, defending champions, had opened their campaign with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to South Africa, and needed a win in their second game to keep hopes alive.
Goals from Ifeoma Onumonu and super-sub Christy Ucheibe propelled the Super Falcons past the Mares of Botswana at the Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat.
The Randy Waldrum ladies are seeking a 10th AWCON title in Morocco, and will take on Burundi in their final group C game on Sunday for a chance to reach the quarterfinals.
Earlier on Thursday, South Africa sealed their qualification for the quarterfinals after beating Burundi 3-1.
The Banyana Banyana top the group with six points, followed by Nigeria and Botswana on three points each, while Burundi, who had lost 4-2 in their first game, are at the bottom of the table.
All four semi-finalists in the tournament will qualify to represent Africa at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia & New Zealand next year.
The fifth-placed team will get an opportunity to also gain a place through a Playoff Tournament taking place early 2023.
