Nigeria’s Super Falcons will look to revive their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign when they face Zambia in a crucial Group C match on Saturday in Morocco.
The defending champions suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening game in Rabat on Tuesday, leaving the 10-time African champions under pressure to respond.
A goalless first half was followed by a dramatic finish as Malawi raced into a two-goal lead before three goals were scored in added time. Nigeria struck twice, but Malawi added another to seal a memorable victory.
Zambia head into the match on top of Group C after thrashing Egypt 6-0 and boast attacking threats including Barbara Banda, Rachael Kundananji and Grace Chanda.
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Victory is vital for Nigeria as the Super Falcons seek to defend their continental title and remain on course to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The two sides have recent history. Zambia defeated Nigeria in the third-place match at the 2022 WAFCON, denying the Super Falcons a medal, before Nigeria claimed a 5-0 win in a quarter-final meeting last year.
Head coach Justine Madugu said: “We are focused and not deterred. Our objective remains picking the FIFA World Cup ticket and going ahead to retain our trophy.”
