By Adegboyega Adeleye
The Super Falcons face a defining moment in their quest for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when they take on Zambia in a crucial Group C encounter on Saturday.
Nigeria’s title defence suffered an unexpected setback after a shock 3-2 defeat to WAFCON debutants Malawi in their opening game, ending the Super Falcons’ long-standing unbeaten record against tournament newcomers and leaving Justin Madugu’s side with little margin for error.
The defeat has intensified the pressure on the defending champions, who must now avoid another slip if they are to keep their hopes of retaining the continental crown—and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil—alive.
Standing in their way are a confident Zambia side fresh from a ruthless 6-0 demolition of Egypt, inspired by captain Barbra Banda, who announced herself as one of the tournament’s early stars with four goals.
