Super Falcons bounce back as Oshoala sinks Zambia despite red card

Super Falcons bounce back as Oshoala sinks Zambia despite red card

Nigeria’s Super Falcons returned to winning ways at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group C match in Rabat, Morocco.

The defending champions produced a determined response following their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening fixture, with Asisat Oshoala scoring the only goal of the match in the eighth minute.

Nigeria were forced to defend their narrow advantage for more than half of the encounter after defender Oluwatosin Demehin was sent off in the 40th minute following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review of her challenge on Zambia captain Barbra Banda.

Despite playing the entire second half with 10 players, the Super Falcons remained disciplined and organised to secure three important points and revive their campaign. (Confédération Africaine de Football)

The victory was particularly significant for Nigeria, who entered the match under pressure after their unexpected opening defeat to Malawi.

The Super Falcons needed a positive result to strengthen their chances of progressing from Group C and keep their pursuit of a record-extending 11th WAFCON title on course.

Head coach Justine Madugu restored Oshoala to the starting line-up, and the experienced forward made an immediate impact.

Nigeria made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the eighth minute after Oshoala latched onto a long pass from midfield and used her pace to get ahead of the Zambian defence.

The forward broke into the penalty area and attempted to beat Zambia goalkeeper Hazel Nali. Although Nali stopped the initial effort, the rebound ricocheted off Oshoala and rolled into the net to give Nigeria an early lead.

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The goal gave the Super Falcons confidence and provided the ideal response after their difficult start to the tournament.

Nigeria had beaten Zambia 5-0 in the quarter-finals of the previous WAFCON, but the latest meeting proved to be a much more demanding contest.

The Super Falcons’ task became significantly harder shortly before halftime when Demehin was shown a straight red card following a VAR review.

The referee ruled that the defender had committed a serious foul while challenging Zambia’s influential captain, Banda.

The dismissal left Nigeria with 10 players and forced the team to adjust its approach for the remainder of the match.

Zambia increased the pressure after the restart and enjoyed more possession as they searched for an equaliser.

The Copper Queens pushed forward through Banda and fellow attacking players, but Nigeria’s defence remained compact and continued to limit clear scoring opportunities.

Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie also delivered an important performance, making key saves and helping the Super Falcons preserve their slender lead.

Nnadozie had faced criticism following the defeat to Malawi, but her display against Zambia provided a strong response as Nigeria secured their first win of the competition.

The goalkeeper appeared emotional after the final whistle as the Super Falcons celebrated a result that could prove decisive in their bid to reach the knockout stage.

Madugu also made tactical adjustments during the second half, introducing fresh players, including Chinwendu Ihezuo, to strengthen Nigeria’s defensive shape and provide additional energy.

The Super Falcons showed resilience, tactical discipline and determination as they resisted sustained Zambian pressure until the final whistle.

The result breathed new life into Nigeria’s WAFCON title defence and left Group C open heading into the final round of group-stage matches.

Nigeria are the most successful team in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, having won a record 10 titles. The Super Falcons are seeking an 11th continental crown at the 2026 tournament, which is being staged in Morocco from July 26 to August 16. (Confédération Africaine de Football)

The 2026 edition is the first WAFCON tournament to feature 16 teams. The competition also carries added importance because the four semi-finalists will qualify automatically for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, while the fifth-placed team will advance to an intercontinental play-off. (The NFF)

The Super Falcons will now turn their attention to their final Group C match against Egypt, with another positive result expected to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the knockout stage.

Nigeria will also have to prepare for the fixture without Demehin, who is expected to serve a suspension following her red card.

For the Super Falcons, the victory over Zambia was more than just three points. It was a statement of resilience after the disappointment against Malawi and a timely boost for their hopes of defending the WAFCON title.

Super Falcons bounce back as Oshoala sinks Zambia despite red card