Nigeria’s Super Falcons revived their hopes of advancing at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia on Saturday.
Asisat Oshoala scored the decisive goal in the eighth minute, finishing from close range after her initial effort was saved by Zambia goalkeeper Hazel Nali. Nigeria, however, were reduced to 10 players shortly before halftime after Oluwatosin Demehin was sent off following a VAR review.
Zambia struggled to capitalise on their numerical advantage as Nigeria’s defence held firm, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie making a key save from Racheal Kundananji’s free-kick. The Copper Queens also missed a late opportunity when Grace Chanda fired over the bar.
The victory moves Nigeria to three points in Group C, level with Zambia and three points behind leaders Malawi. The Super Falcons will face Egypt in their final group match on Wednesday, while Zambia take on Malawi.
The WAFCON also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists securing automatic qualification and the losing quarter-finalists entering an inter-confederation playoff route.
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