Nov. 4 (PREMIUM TIMES) — The Super Falcons of Nigeria Sunday moved a step closer to defending their African title as they romped into the semi finals of the 2012 Africa Women’s Championship (AWC) after they made it three wins in as many games with an emphatic 3-1 victory over Ivory Coast.

The Falcons needed a draw to guarantee a spot in the semi-finals of the 2012 Africa Women’s Championship but finished top of group B with 9 points.

The defending champions are now billed to face their South African counterparts in semi finals of the bieannal women championships.

On Sunday, in their last group game, the Falcons dominated proceedings all through and will hope to put up a similar or improved performance against their next foes, the Bayana Bayana.

Ogonna Chukwudi scored the first goal for the Falcons in Sunday’s game against the Ivorians

Defender Ngozi Ebere made it 2-0 three minutes from half time with a well taken free-kick. Stella Mbachu scored her second goal of the competition to make it 3-0 in the 75th minute.

Ivory Coast got a consolation goal in the 82nd minute through N’Rehy Tia Viho Ines to put final score at 3-1.

Coach Kadiri Ikhana expressed his delight with the team’s performance, saying their confidence is high after winning all three games in the group.

“It was very important for the team to get 9 points from the group games and I am very happy that we got it.

“It was a very good performance from the team. They moved very well. Apart from that little error in defense that led to the goal, they played very well.”

Stella Mbachu, speaking after the match with Ivory Coast, reiterated that the team is confident and ready to face South Africa in the semi-final

“I am very confident going into the semis. Everyone in the team is mentally prepared for the challenge and ready to give our best and retain the title.”

According to Ikhana, “The match against South Africa will be another tough game but I think we have a good chance against them.”

The Super Falcons will depart Malabo for Bata on Monday, November 5.

They will play the semi-final against South Africa on Wednesday November 7 at the Nkoantoma Stadium by 5.30pm (Nigerian time).