Algeria’s women’s football coach, Farid Benstiti, has applauded his team for their spirited performance after they battled Nigeria’s Super Falcons to a goalless draw at the ongoing 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

The intense Group B match was played on Sunday night at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca. Nigeria, the nine-time champions, dominated possession but couldn’t find a way past Algeria’s stubborn defence and impressive goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi, who pulled off several crucial saves.

Speaking after the match, Benstiti praised his players for sticking to the game plan.

“We knew it would take a perfect defensive game to hold Nigeria. I’m proud of the girls – they showed heart and tactical maturity,” he told CAFonline.

The result means Algeria wraps up the group stage in second place with five points from three matches. Up next for the Fennecs is a tough quarter-final clash against tournament hosts, Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses, on Friday.

Meanwhile, Nigerian fans have expressed concern over the Super Falcons’ wastefulness in front of goal, hoping the team will sharpen their attack before the knockout stage.

With the tournament heating up, all eyes will be on Algeria to see if they can continue their surprise run against Morocco and possibly go even further in the competition.