The Super Falcons are through to the semi-finals of the ongoing 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after thrashing Zambia 5–0 in Casablanca, and defender Michelle Alozie believes Nigeria’s height advantage is proving decisive in their title hunt, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria, unbeaten and yet to concede in the tournament, topped Group B with seven points before delivering their most dominant performance so far against the Copper Queens. The team’s set-piece efficiency stood out once again, with three of their five goals coming from dead-ball situations in the quarter-final.
Alozie, who plays her club football in the United States for Houston Dash, has been one of the most consistent performers in Justin Madugu’s starting eleven.
“We knew that set piece was definitely going to be an important component, especially since we have a high difference with Zambia and most African teams,” Alozie told Nigerian journalist Ademola Victor in the mixed zone after the match, as reported by Punch.
The 28-year-old has helped Nigeria maintain four consecutive clean sheets, while also contributing to one of the goals against Zambia. After the match, she revealed how demanding it was physically, describing the effort required to shut down Zambia’s fast front three.
Born in California to Nigerian parents, Alozie holds a degree in Molecular Biology and also works as a cancer research technician — a rare dual career that earned her global recognition during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
She was named in the CAF Women’s Africa Best XI in December 2023 and has since continued to grow as a dependable presence for the national team.
With South Africa awaiting in the semi-finals, Nigeria will be banking on every edge, including their aerial strength and defensive discipline, to stay on track for a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.