WAFCON: Oshoala’s Goal Seals Victory for 10-Player Falcons Against Zambia

The Super Falcons of Nigeria returned to winning ways at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after edging Zambia 1-0 in a hard-fought Group C encounter on Saturday at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

Asisat Oshoala’s early strike proved decisive as the defending champions secured all three points despite playing more than half of the match with 10 players.

Nigeria entered the fixture under pressure following their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi in the opening group game, a result that placed their title defence under scrutiny.

The Super Falcons made a bright start and took the lead in the eighth minute through Oshoala, who returned to the starting lineup.

The experienced forward chased a long pass from midfield, outpaced two Zambian defenders and drove into the penalty area.

Although her initial effort was saved by goalkeeper Hazel Nali, the rebound struck Oshoala before rolling into the net to hand Nigeria an early advantage.

The game changed significantly in the 39th minute when defender Oluwatosin Demehin was sent off following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.

The referee ruled that Demehin had denied Zambia captain Barbra Banda a clear goalscoring opportunity, reducing Nigeria to 10 players before half-time.

With a numerical advantage, Zambia dominated possession for much of the second half and repeatedly searched for an equaliser.

However, the Super Falcons produced a disciplined defensive performance, with goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie making several important saves to preserve Nigeria’s slender lead.

Nnadozie, who faced heavy criticism after the defeat to Malawi, delivered a composed display and was visibly emotional after the final whistle, with tears reflecting the pressure she had endured in recent days.

Head coach Justine Madugu also made tactical substitutions during the second half, introducing fresh legs, including Chinwendu Ihezuo, to strengthen the team defensively and disrupt Zambia’s attacking rhythm.

The victory revived Nigeria’s campaign and boosted the Super Falcons’ hopes of reaching the knockout stage.

The nine-time African champions will conclude their Group C campaign against Egypt on Matchday Three, where another positive result would strengthen their chances of qualifying for the quarter-finals.