Both teams were evenly matched in the opening minutes, with Nigeria dominating possession while Botswana attempted a few long-range efforts without threatening goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The first real chance of the match came in the 23rd minute when Ashleigh Plumptre, set up by Toni Payne, fired just wide from the edge of the box.
The Super Falcons kept the pressure on and nearly took the lead nine minutes before halftime through Payne, but the Everton midfielder couldn’t hit the target.
Head coach Justine Madugu made bold changes at halftime, introducing Esther Okoronkwo, Christy Ucheibe, and Chiwendu Ihezuo for Asisat Oshoala, Toni Payne, and Rinsola Babajide.
Despite dominating the second half, Nigeria found it difficult to break down a resolute Botswana defence. Jennifer Echegini came close with a late effort, but it wasn’t until the 90th minute that the deadlock was finally broken.
Ihezuo latched onto a precise cross from Okoronkwo and calmly slotted home, sparking celebrations as the Super Falcons advanced to the last eight with back-to-back wins in the group stage.
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