Nigeria’s Super Falcons will be aiming to revive their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign when they take on Zambia in a crucial Group C clash on Saturday, with head coach Justine Madugu insisting his side remains fully focused on qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and retaining the continental title.
- +WAFCON: Super Falcons seek redemption in crucial Zambia clash
The nine-time African champions suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening match in Rabat on Tuesday, a result that sent shockwaves through African women’s football and left Nigeria under pressure heading into their second group game.
The nine-time African champions suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening match in Rabat on Tuesday, a result that sent shockwaves through African women’s football and left Nigeria under pressure heading into their second group game.
After a goalless first half, Malawi raced into a two-goal lead before a dramatic stoppage-time spell produced three more goals. Nigeria scored twice, but Malawi struck once more to seal a famous victory in their maiden appearance at the continent’s flagship women’s tournament.
The defeat means the Super Falcons must avoid another slip-up against Zambia to keep their hopes of progressing and securing a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup alive.
Nigeria face a difficult test against a Zambia side that sits top of Group C after a commanding 6-0 victory over Egypt.
The Copper Queens boast one of Africa’s most dangerous attacking line-ups, led by global stars Barbara Banda, Rachael Kundananji and Grace Chanda.
Victory for Zambia would put them in a commanding position to qualify for the knockout stage, while Nigeria desperately need all three points to restore confidence and momentum.
Despite the disappointing start, Madugu insisted the Super Falcons remain focused on achieving their objectives.
“We are focused and not deterred. Our objective remains picking the FIFA World Cup ticket and going ahead to retain our trophy,” Madugu said.
Nigeria have qualified for every FIFA Women’s World Cup since the inaugural tournament in China in 1991, making the prospect of missing the 2027 edition almost unthinkable for the continent’s most successful women’s national team.
Saturday’s encounter also renews a growing rivalry between the two African heavyweights.
Zambia defeated Nigeria in the third-place match at the 2022 WAFCON to deny the Super Falcons a medal, ending their campaign on a disappointing note.
The Falcons, however, gained revenge last year by thrashing the Copper Queens 5-0 in the quarter-finals of a major international tournament.
With World Cup qualification and their WAFCON title defence hanging in the balance, Nigeria will be hoping to produce a statement performance against one of Africa’s fastest-rising women’s football nations.
