The Super Falcons secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) with an emphatic 6-2 victory over Egypt.
Former Barcelona striker Asisat Oshoala opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Monday Gift doubled Nigeria's advantage with a simple finish from close range.
Egypt responded before the break through Nadine Ghazi, who converted from the penalty spot to reduce the deficit.
The Super Falcons, however, took complete control after the restart. Uchenna Kanu scored within seconds of coming on as a substitute before Christy Ucheibe added the fourth goal from the penalty spot.
Ghazi grabbed her second goal of the contest for Egypt, but Nigeria finished strongly with further strikes from captain Rasheedat Ajibade and substitute Joy Omewa to seal a commanding victory and book their place in the knockout phase.
Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five takeaways from the match.
Possible injury concern for Oshoala
The Super Falcons could have suffered a major injury setback after Asisat Oshoala was forced off during the encounter against Egypt.
The veteran striker had opened the scoring for Nigeria from the penalty spot in the first half but was unable to complete the match, with Monday Gift coming on as her replacement.
Although the exact nature of the injury is yet to be confirmed, Oshoala's early withdrawal will raise concerns over her availability for Nigeria's quarter-final clash.
Babajide makes strong case for starting role
Rinsola Babajide justified her inclusion in the starting XI with an impressive attacking display before being substituted in the second half.
The former Liverpool winger was a constant threat despite Egypt's compact defensive approach and played a key role in two of Nigeria's goals.
She first produced an excellent run down the flank before picking out Monday Gift for a simple finish to make it 2-0, before later setting up Uchenna Kanu, who scored moments after coming on.
With her influential performance, Babajide has strengthened her case for another starting opportunity in the quarter-finals.
Brilliant first half performance from Sabry
Egypt goalkeeper Habiba Sabry produced an impressive first-half display despite conceding twice.
The shot-stopper made a series of important saves to deny the Super Falcons on several occasions and prevented the scoreline from becoming more emphatic before the interval.
Her performance kept Egypt within touching distance for much of the contest despite Nigeria's attacking dominance.
Referee at the centre of controversy
The referee was involved in several controversial moments throughout the encounter, awarding four penalties between both teams.
Nigeria benefited from three spot-kicks—one in the first half and two after the break—which played a significant role in their comfortable victory.
Egypt were also awarded a penalty following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review after Michelle Alozie was adjudged to have fouled Yassmin Zezo inside the area.
The decision sparked protests from the Nigerian bench, who strongly disagreed with the referee's verdict.
Nadine Ghazi shines despite Egypt defeat
Nadine Ghazi was Egypt's standout performer despite her side's defeat.
The midfielder impressed with her composure and attacking quality, scoring twice to give the North Africans moments of hope.
She first converted from the penalty spot late in the first half before adding her second with a superb strike from the edge of the area after the restart, capping an impressive individual display despite Egypt's elimination.
Adeyemi Adewale
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