Nigeria’s Super Falcons revived their TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with a determined 1-0 victory over Zambia on Saturday, overcoming the challenge of playing with 10 women for more than half of the match.
Captain Asisat Oshoala scored the decisive goal in the eighth minute at Al Madina Stadium, handing the defending champions a crucial win after their shock 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening Group C fixture.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 40th minute when defender Oluwatosin Demehin was sent off, forcing Nigeria to defend their slender advantage with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of the contest.
Despite Zambia’s sustained pressure after the break, the Super Falcons produced a disciplined defensive display to deny the Copper Queens an equaliser and secure all three points.
The victory comes at a critical time for Nigeria, especially after Malawi defeated Egypt 3-1 earlier on Saturday to move to the top of Group C with six points.
Zambia, who entered the encounter on the back of an emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt, dominated possession in the second half and introduced several attacking substitutes, including Evarine Phiri, Evarine Katongo, Chisala Chipasula and Rachel Mupopo, in search of an equaliser.
Nigeria also reshuffled their side, with head coach Justine Madugu introducing Sikiratu Oladipo, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Halimatu Ayinde and Esther Okoronkwo to reinforce the team’s defensive structure and see out the result.
The Super Falcons’ resilience ensured they held on for a vital win that keeps their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive.
Following the result, Malawi lead Group C with six points, while Zambia and Nigeria are tied on three points, although Zambia remain second on goal difference. Egypt are yet to register a point.
Nigeria must now avoid defeat in their final group match to strengthen their chances of progressing to the knockout stage as they continue their quest for a record-extending continental title.
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