Nigeria’s Super Falcons, already assured of a place in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, will seek to maintain their perfect record when they face Algeria 8pm today at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The nine-time African champions have cruised through Group B so far, opening their campaign with a confident 3-0 victory over Tunisia, thanks to goals from Asisat Oshoala, Rinsola Babajide and Chiwendu Ihezuo.
They followed that with a narrow 1-0 win against Botswana, secured by a late strike from Ihezuo, guaranteeing them a place in the knockout stage.
Head coach Justine Madugu has hinted at squad rotation for today’s clash, mindful of the physical toll from Thursday’s encounter.
“Every game has its own strategy. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t,” Madugu said. “Not every player will have a good day, but we got better in the second half and converted one of our chances.”
The Falcons enter the match with a clean bill of health and no suspensions, while several fringe players will be eager to impress if given the nod.
Established names such as goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and defenders Michelle Alozie, Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre could still feature, while Ifeoma Onumonu might be handed a start up front.
Algeria, meanwhile, sit second in the group with four points, having edged Botswana 1-0 and played out a goalless draw with Tunisia.
Les Fennecs need at least a point to secure progression, while a slip-up could open the door for Tunisia to snatch second place with a big win over Botswana.
A victory for Nigeria would see them complete the group stage with a flawless nine points, underscoring their ambition for yet another continental crown.
