Super Falcons must beat Zambia to survive WAFCON after shocking Malawi loss
Four days after a shocking 3-2 loss to tournament debutants Malawi, Nigeria’s Super Falcons face Zambia at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Saturday, knowing only victory keeps their WAFCON title defence and 30‑year World Cup qualification streak alive. Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga scored for Malawi, while Rasheedat Ajibade’s penalty and Uchenna Kanu’s late goal narrowed the gap. The defeat exposed defensive lapses and sparked criticism of tactics and selection, though coach Justin Madugu and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie insist the team remains mentally strong.
Zambia arrive full of confidence after a 6‑0 demolition of Egypt, with captain Barbra Banda scoring four goals. The winner of Saturday’s clash will likely top Group C, as only the top two teams advance to the quarter‑finals in the expanded 16‑team format, which also serves as the African qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. For Nigeria, an early group‑stage exit would jeopardise its record of appearing in every Women’s World Cup since 1991.
Will you back the Super Falcons to bounce back and secure a vital win, or do you doubt their chances against a surging Zambia side?