Alozie Undergoes Drug Test After MVP Performance in Falcons’ Win Over Zambia

Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie underwent a mandatory anti-doping test after delivering a Player of the Match performance in Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group C fixture at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday.

The 29-year-old confirmed after the match that she was selected for the routine post-match drug test, a standard procedure conducted on randomly chosen players during major international tournaments.

The testing meant Alozie remained at the stadium long after her teammates had departed.

The Chicago Stars defender produced an outstanding display as Nigeria secured a crucial victory to revive their campaign following a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening group match.

Alozie played the entire 90 minutes and was named Player of the Match after a disciplined defensive performance that helped the Super Falcons preserve their narrow lead despite being reduced to 10 players for more than 50 minutes.

Nigeria were forced to play with a numerical disadvantage after defender Blessing Demehin was shown a straight red card for denying Zambia captain Barbara Banda a clear goalscoring opportunity.

Initially deployed at right-back, Alozie later switched to left-back following a tactical adjustment and continued to excel in defence.

Throughout the encounter, she made several crucial interceptions, recoveries and clearances that limited Zambia to only two shots on target, helping Nigeria maintain their clean sheet under sustained pressure.

Despite receiving the individual award, Alozie was modest in her assessment of her performance, insisting that the victory was the result of a collective effort by the entire team.

Responding to questions from journalists after completing the drug test, she acknowledged being selected for anti-doping screening but downplayed her individual contribution.

“I don’t really know if I deserve the Player of the Match award,” she said.

“I think it was really a team effort, and we really came out on top today.”

The victory has significantly boosted Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the tournament.

The Super Falcons will now face Egypt in their final Group C fixture on August 5, with victory expected to guarantee qualification for the quarter-finals as they continue their quest for another continental title.