10-Woman Super Falcons Stun Zambia To Revive WAFCON Title Dream

According to Ireporter Online, Nigeria’s Super Falcons produced a determined display to defeat Zambia 1-0 on Saturday in Rabat despite playing more than half of the match with 10 players, reviving their hopes of progressing from Group C at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The defending champions bounced back from their opening defeat to Malawi thanks to an early strike from captain Asisat Oshoala, who found the breakthrough in the eighth minute at the Al Medina Stadium.

The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year capitalised on a defensive lapse, raced beyond two Zambian defenders and saw her initial effort saved by goalkeeper Hazel Nali before the rebound deflected off her leg and rolled into the net.

Nigeria’s task became significantly more difficult five minutes before halftime when defender Blessing Demehin received a straight red card for bringing down Zambia captain Barbra Banda, forcing the Super Falcons to play the remainder of the contest with a numerical disadvantage.

Despite sustained pressure from the Copper Queens, the Nigerian defence remained resolute, frustrating Zambia’s attacking threats and preserving the slim advantage until the final whistle to secure a vital three points.

The victory leaves Malawi at the top of Group C with six points after recording successive wins, while Nigeria and Zambia are level on three points each. Egypt remain without a point after two matches.

The Super Falcons will now turn their attention to a decisive final group encounter against Egypt on Wednesday as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.

Earlier in the day, Malawi maintained their perfect start to the tournament with a 3-1 victory over Egypt at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

Rose Kadzere opened the scoring before Faith Chinzimu doubled Malawi’s advantage in first-half stoppage time. Although Malawi were reduced to 10 players after Rose Alufandika was sent off early in the second half, Temwa Chawinga extended their lead before Egypt pulled one back through Eman Kassem.

The result secured Malawi’s second consecutive victory and strengthened their position at the summit of Group C heading into the final round of group fixtures.