The final Group B match at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations ended in a tactical stalemate on Sunday, with coaches Justin Madugu of Nigeria and Farid Benstiti of Algeria offering contrasting reactions to their teams’ goalless draw in Casablanca, Footynaija.com reports.
Nine-time champions Nigeria and Algeria played out a goalless draw in Casablanca on Sunday night, the first time the North Africans will avoid defeat against the Super Falcons.
For Algeria, the result marked a historic breakthrough. The Fennecs qualified for the WAFCON quarter-finals for the first time in their history, thanks to a disciplined display that stifled a dominant Nigerian side.
Former Paris Saint-Germain women’s team manager Farid Benstiti was immensely pleased with the result.
“We knew it would take a perfect defensive game to hold Nigeria. I’m proud of the girls – they showed heart and tactical maturity,” said an emotional Benstiti, whose side weathered 24 Nigerian shots and 13 corners without conceding.
At the other end, Nigeria coach Justin Madugu opted to rotate his squad after already securing qualification.
Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession and chances, the Super Falcons were left frustrated by a resolute Algerian defence and the heroics of goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi, who pulled off a stunning injury-time save to deny Esther Okoronkwo.
“Every match gives us something new,” Madugu reflected. “We rotated the squad, maintained a clean sheet, and learned to grind out results when the goals don’t come. It’s a valuable lesson.”
He also addressed fans directly after the draw:
“We apologise to Nigerians for not winning against Algeria because the expectations are for us to always win. We promise to work harder in our coming games.”
With the draw, Nigeria topped the group and will now face Zambia in a mouth-watering quarter-final clash.