Wafcon 2024 Nigeria 0 Algeria 0: Five takeaways from Super Falcons goalless draw v Algeria

The Super Falcons advanced to the quarterfinals of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as group leaders after playing out a goalless draw against Algeria on Sunday.

Despite creating several opportunities, the Falcons were unable to convert any of their chances into goals.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the match.

Justin Madugu makes eight changes

Super Falcons coach Justin Madugu made eight changes to the starting lineup that faced Botswana on Thursday, keeping only Chiamaka Nnadozie, Oluwatosin Demehin, and Rasheedat Ajibade in the squad for the clash against Algeria.

The numerous changes had a visible impact, as the team struggled to find cohesion and rhythm throughout the match.

Poor corner kick delivery

With Nigeria finding it difficult to create clear-cut chances from open play, the Super Falcons turned to set pieces in an attempt to unlock the Algerian defense.

They had several opportunities from corner kicks but were let down by poor delivery.

Both Francisca Ordega and Rasheedat Ajibade, tasked with taking corners, failed to make the most of those chances—especially early in the second half, where most of their deliveries ended in goal kicks.

Compact performance from Algeria

Algeria delivered a disciplined and compact defensive performance to keep Nigeria at bay.

The North Africans offered little going forward, rarely posing any real threat to the Super Falcons’ defense—a clear strategy aimed at securing the vital point needed to book their place in the quarterfinals.

Falcons booed by Algerian fans

With Nigeria having already secured a quarterfinal spot, the Algerian team drew strong support from the crowd at the stadium.

The fans frequently booed every Super Falcons touch in the attacking half, rallying behind Algeria as they pushed for a crucial result.

A draw was all Algeria needed to advance to the next round, regardless of the outcome between Botswana and Tunisia.

Super Falcons still struggling with finishing issues

The Super Falcons' finishing woes have been a recurring problem since the start of the tournament, and the issue persisted in their clash against Algeria.

Despite recording 11 shot attempts in the first half, Nigeria failed to register a single effort on target, highlighting their continued lack of clinical edge in front of goal.

Adeyemi Adewale

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