Super Falcons Defeat Zambia 1-0 to Revive WAFCON Campaign Despite Playing with 10 Women

Nigeria’s Super Falcons reignited their quest for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title with a gritty 1-0 victory over Zambia on Saturday night, overcoming the setback of playing nearly an hour with 10 players to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.

The defending African champions entered the Group C encounter under immense pressure after suffering a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening match. Anything less than victory against the Copper Queens would have left Nigeria on the brink of a historic group-stage elimination. Instead, the Falcons responded with determination and discipline to claim all three points at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

Nigeria made the perfect start when six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala found the breakthrough in the ninth minute. The experienced striker capitalised on a defensive lapse inside the Zambian penalty area before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Ng’ambo Musole to hand the Super Falcons an early lead. The goal proved decisive in a fiercely contested encounter.

The match took a dramatic turn five minutes before half-time when defender Blessing Demehin was shown a straight red card for bringing down Zambia captain Barbra Banda, who appeared to be through on goal. Reduced to 10 players, Nigeria faced the daunting task of protecting their slender advantage against one of Africa’s most dangerous attacking sides.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Super Falcons delivered one of their most disciplined defensive displays in recent years. Zambia dominated possession and pressed relentlessly in search of an equaliser, but Nigeria’s backline remained resolute. Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie commanded her area confidently, while the defence frustrated Zambia’s star forwards, including Banda, who remarkably failed to register a single shot throughout the entire match.

Nigeria also continued to threaten on the counterattack, with Oshoala’s movement and pace causing problems for the Zambian defence. Although the Falcons were unable to extend their lead, they managed the closing stages with composure, denying Zambia clear-cut opportunities and earning a hard-fought clean sheet.

A standout performer was Michelle Alozie, whose tireless work rate, defensive contributions and attacking support earned her the Player of the Match award. Her display epitomised Nigeria’s resilience as the team battled through adversity to secure a vital victory.

The result leaves Malawi top of Group C with six points after defeating Egypt earlier in the day, while Nigeria and Zambia both have three points, setting up a tense final round of group matches. The Super Falcons will now face Egypt, knowing another victory could secure qualification for the knockout stage, while Zambia take on Malawi in a decisive regional showdown.

Beyond keeping Nigeria’s title defence alive, the victory also restored confidence after the disappointing opening defeat and showcased the fighting spirit that has long defined the Super Falcons. With momentum regained and qualification still within reach, Justin Madugu’s side will be hoping to build on this resilient performance as they continue their pursuit of continental glory and a place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.