The Super Falcons of Nigeria wrapped up their group stage engagement of the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations with a goalless draw against the Fennecs of Algeria at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca on Sunday, July 13.

Nigeria had already sealed their qualification into the competition’s quarterfinals following a 3-0 win over Tunisia in their Group B opener and a 1-0 win over Botswana. With the top spot finish in the group still at stake, Falcons coach Justin Magudu heavily rotated his starting lineup against an Algerian side that had also avoided defeat (a 1-0 win over Botswana and a draw to Tunisia) earlier in the competition.

Eight changes in total were made, as the trio of Isah Sikiratu, Usani Miracle, and Oladipo Shukurat were all handed their WAFCON debuts. A one-minute silence was observed in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away earlier today.

Despite the occasion, it was a familiar case of total dominance from the Super Falcons, with no goals to show for it. The nine-time African champions had 56 percent of the ball possession, with just one shot taken in the first half. The second half wasn’t any better, as their possession revolved around the midfield, with 12 shots taken, albeit only two on target this time.

The result of the drab, goalless draw ensures Nigeria qualifies as the top team in Group B and sets up a quarter-final showdown with Zambia, while Algeria follows as the second-placed team and will face whoever finishes second between South Africa and Mali in Group C.