WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons Seek Redemption Against Zambia

Defending champions Super Falcons of Nigeria Nigeria will be aiming to revive their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign when they take on Zambia in a crucial Group C clash in Rabat on Saturday

The Super Falcons suffered a stunning 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening fixture on Tuesday, a result that sent shockwaves across African women’s football and left Justine Madugu’s side under pressure heading into their second group game.

After a goalless first half, the Scorchers raced into a two-goal lead before a frantic finish produced three goals in stoppage time.

Nigeria struck twice, but Malawi added another to seal a famous victory in their maiden appearance at the continental showpiece.

The defeat means the ten-time African champions have little margin for error against Zambia. Victory is essential to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages—and qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup—firmly alive.

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Standing in their way are a confident Zambia side that sit atop Group C after thrashing Egypt 6-0 in their opening game.

The Copper Queens boast one of the continent’s most dangerous attacks, led by reigning CAF Women’s Player of the Year Barbara Banda, whose pace and power make her a constant threat.

She is supported by fellow stars Rachael Kundananji and Grace Chanda, giving Zambia one of the most formidable forward lines in the competition.

For Nigeria, missing out on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is unthinkable. The Super Falcons have featured at every edition of the tournament since its inception in China in 1991, and another defeat would leave that remarkable record in serious jeopardy.

Recent meetings between the two sides have added extra spice to the contest. Zambia denied Nigeria a podium finish at the 2022 WAFCON by winning the third-place playoff, but the Super Falcons responded emphatically last year, cruising to a 5-0 victory over the Copper Queens in the quarter-finals.

With pride, qualification hopes and continental supremacy all at stake, Saturday’s encounter promises to be one of the biggest matches of the group stage.