Defending champions Nigeria face a crucial test in their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign when they take on Zambia in a decisive Group C clash at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Saturday.
The Super Falcons are under pressure after a surprise 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening match, while Zambia boosted their credentials with a commanding 6-0 victory over Egypt.
Nigeria need a positive result to keep their knockout-stage hopes firmly on track, while Zambia could secure qualification with victory if Malawi avoid defeat against Egypt.
History favours the nine-time African champions, who have won three of their four previous WAFCON meetings with Zambia, including a dominant 5-0 quarter-final triumph at the last edition. However, another defeat would see Nigeria suffer back-to-back group-stage losses for the first time in the tournament’s history and edge the defending champions closer to an early exit.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and striker Uchenna Kanu were on target against Malawi, while Zambia will again rely on captain Barbra Banda, who scored four goals in the Copper Queens’ opening victory over Egypt.
Kick-off is scheduled for 9 p.m. local time in Rabat, with both sides chasing a result that could shape their WAFCON 2026 campaign.
