In a fiercely contested clash at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Nigeria’s Super Falcons were held to a goalless draw by a well-organised Algerian side, despite dominating possession and creating the bulk of the chances.

With Botswana edging Tunisia 2–1 in the other group fixture, the hard-earned point was enough for Algeria to secure second place in Group B with five points, just behind Nigeria, who topped the group with seven.

Already guaranteed qualification to the knockout stage, Nigeria made several changes to their starting XI but still looked dangerous throughout. The likes of Francisca Ordega, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Esther Okoronkwo all came close to breaking the deadlock, but Algeria’s defensive structure and the brilliance of goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi proved impenetrable.

N’Gazi was particularly outstanding in the closing moments, diving full stretch to deny Okoronkwo’s thunderous header in stoppage time and preserve her side’s clean sheet.

Despite their attacking dominance, Nigeria had scored four goals and conceded none before this match. The Super Falcons were left to rue missed chances.

Coach Justin Madugu, however, saw positives in the performance:

"Every match gives us something new. We rotated the squad, maintained a clean sheet, and learned how to grind out results even when the goals don’t come."

Algeria’s head coach, Farid Benstiti, hailed his players’ grit and discipline:

"We knew it would take a perfect defensive game to hold Nigeria. I’m proud of the girls. They showed heart and tactical maturity."

The draw sets up a tantalising quarter-final stage. Nigeria will now face the runners-up from Group A, Zambia, while Algeria, advance to the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.