After suffering a disappointing opening-day defeat to tournament debutants Malawi, Nigeria’s Super Falcons responded in emphatic fashion, grinding out a crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia to record their first win of the competition and keep their FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification hopes alive.
Heading into the encounter, expectations were high as the Falcons sought an immediate response. The team began the match with confidence and intensity, creating promising attacking opportunities in the opening minutes. Although their early efforts did not yield a goal, the players remained composed and continued to press forward.
The breakthrough arrived in the eighth minute through a familiar partnership. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade produced a perfectly weighted pass that split the Zambian defence, allowing Asisat Oshoala to finish with precision.
The goal, reminiscent of the chemistry both players displayed during Nigeria’s recent international friendlies, proved to be the decisive moment of the contest.
Nigeria’s task became significantly more difficult before halftime when defender Oluwatosin Demehin was shown a red card, reducing the Falcons to ten players.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the team refused to retreat into its shell. Instead, the players demonstrated resilience, discipline and determination, maintaining their attacking intent while remaining organised defensively in pursuit of all three points.
Zambia increased the pressure after the dismissal, but Nigeria found reassurance in the brilliance of goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The reigning African Goalkeeper of the Year delivered another commanding performance, producing a series of outstanding saves to deny the Copper Queens. She was well supported by a disciplined defensive line that stood firm under sustained pressure throughout the second half.
Following five minutes of added time, the final whistle confirmed Nigeria’s hard-earned 1-0 victory, with Oshoala’s early strike separating both sides.
The result handed the Super Falcons their first three points of the tournament and restored belief within the squad after their difficult start.
Beyond the victory, the performance highlighted the team’s determination, character and resilience. Playing a significant portion of the match with ten players, the Falcons displayed the fighting spirit and defensive organisation that have long defined Nigerian women’s football.
Their ability to withstand Zambia’s attacks while protecting a slender lead serves as a reminder of the quality and experience within the squad.
With momentum regained, the Super Falcons will now turn their attention to the remainder of the tournament, knowing that stronger performances could secure qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup and reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s leading women’s football teams.
