Oshoala’s early strike seals crucial win for Super Falcons
By Tosin Omojola
Nigeria secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia despite playing with 10 women for more than half of the match, throwing Group C wide open at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Rabat on Saturday.
The Super Falcons were reduced to 10 players in the 40th minute after defender Blessing Demehin was shown a red card for bringing down Zambia’s star striker, Barbra Banda, at the Al Medina Stadium.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, the defending champions held firm to claim all three points and revive their campaign for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
Asisat Oshoala proved the difference, scoring the decisive goal in the eighth minute. The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year raced past two defenders, and after goalkeeper Hazel Nali parried her initial effort, the rebound ricocheted off Oshoala’s right leg and rolled into the net.
The result leaves Group C finely balanced after two rounds of matches. Malawi lead the standings with six points, while Nigeria and Zambia have three points each. Egypt remain without a point ahead of the final group fixtures on Wednesday in Rabat.
Nigeria will face Egypt in their final group match, while Malawi take on Zambia in a crucial southern African derby that will determine the group’s final standings.
Earlier on Saturday, Malawi strengthened their grip on top spot with a 3-1 victory over Egypt. Star forward, Tenwa Chawinga starred for the Scorchers, setting up one goal before scoring another in an impressive display.
