Falcons Seek WAFCON Quarter-Final Ticket Against Egypt

Nigeria’s Super Falcons will look to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations when they face Egypt in their final Group C fixture on Wednesday in Rabat.

The 10-time African champions endured a disappointing start to their title defence after suffering a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi. However, they responded with a determined 1-0 victory over Zambia to revive their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage.

Victory against Egypt would take Nigeria to six points, but qualification may still depend on the outcome of the other Group C encounter between Malawi and Zambia.

Despite Egypt losing their opening two matches, including a heavy 6-0 defeat to Zambia before a 3-1 loss to Malawi, the Super Falcons are expected to approach the contest with caution.

Head coach Justin Madugu will be forced to reshuffle his squad after losing two key players to suspension. Defender Tosin Demehin is unavailable after receiving a red card against Zambia for bringing down Barbra Banda when the Zambian captain was through on goal. Midfielder Jennifer Echegini will also miss the match after accumulating two yellow cards during the group stage.

Madugu is expected to make tactical adjustments similar to those that proved effective against Zambia. Christy Ucheibe, who impressed after moving into central defence following Demehin’s dismissal, is likely to partner experienced defender Osinachi Ohale. Toni Payne is expected to return to midfield alongside captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Halimatu Ayinde.

In attack, Uchenna Kanu could once again feature alongside Asisat Oshoala. Kanu scored Nigeria’s second goal against Malawi, while Oshoala netted the decisive strike in the victory over Zambia.

Malawi currently top Group C with six points, while Nigeria and Zambia have three points each. Should Zambia defeat Malawi and Nigeria overcome Egypt, all three teams would finish level on six points.

If that scenario unfolds, the Confederation of African Football’s competition regulations will determine the two teams that qualify for the quarter-finals. Head-to-head results, goal difference and other tie-breaking criteria will be used to separate the teams if they finish level on points, making every goal potentially decisive in Wednesday’s fixtures.