WAFCON Showdown: Super Falcons, Zambia Set for Quarter-Final Fireworks In Casablanca
All eyes are on Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca, this Friday as Nigeria’s Super Falcons lock horns with Zambia’s Copper Queens in what promises to be one of the most thrilling quarter-final clashes in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The encounter is more than just a football match it’s a high-stakes battle between two rising giants of African women’s football. Nigeria, nine-time continental champions, are no strangers to pressure.
Yet recent tournaments have shown that their dominance is no longer guaranteed, with teams like Zambia, South Africa and Morocco closing the gap in both talent and tactical sharpness.
This match carries echoes of the past. While Nigeria once thrashed Zambia 6-0 (2014) and 4-0 (2018) in group matches, the Copper Queens got their revenge by beating the Falcons in the bronze-medal match at the last WAFCON in Morocco.
Now, with both sides boasting players named in the tournament’s Best XI of the group stage, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Nigeria’s captain Rasheedat Ajibade and defender Ashleigh Plumptre have impressed, while Zambia’s powerhouse trio Barbra Banda, Lushomo Mweemba and Rachael Kundananji are expected to bring their signature firepower.
Coach Justine Madugu of Nigeria remains confident: “We’ve studied them, and we’re not fazed.
We’ll have our answers ready on matchday.” Zambia’s Nora Häuptle isn’t holding back either: “We’ve had good rest, we’re prepared. If you want to win this tournament, you must beat everyone.”
With midfield dynamo Deborah Abiodun returning from suspension and striker Esther Okoronkwo pushing for a start, Nigeria’s squad depth could prove decisive.
Back home, the Super Falcons are enjoying strong government support, with ministers Suwaiba Said Ahmad and Hannatu Musa Musawa sending goodwill messages to boost morale ahead of the clash.
Whichever team emerges victorious will face another daunting test — against defending champions South Africa or the ever-improving Senegal in Tuesday’s semi-final.
This quarter-final isn’t just a game. It’s a moment that could reshape the African women’s football landscape.
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