Super Falcons set for tough quarter-final against Zambia

Nigeria’s Super Falcons and Zambia’s Copper Queens are set for a high-stakes clash on Friday in Casablanca, in one of the most anticipated matches of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Falcons, nine-time champions, once dominated the continent with ease. But in recent years, teams like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia have improved greatly, making the competition tougher.

In the last tournament, South Africa beat Nigeria in the group stage and went on to win the final against Morocco.

Nigeria was knocked out in the semi-final by Morocco after a 1-1 draw and a loss on penalties.

Zambia, once comfortably beaten by Nigeria in past tournaments, defeated the Super Falcons in the 2022 bronze-medal match.

This Friday’s game at Larbi Zaouli Stadium promises to be intense, with both teams determined to go all the way.

Nigeria’s captain Rasheedat Ajibade and defender Ashleigh Plumptre were both named in the Best XI of the group stage, along with top Zambian players Barbra Banda, Rachael Kundananji, and Lushomo Mweemba.

Nigeria coach Justine Madugu said:
“We have watched them many times and we know what they can do.

We have our strategies to deal with their strengths. We’re focused on our game and ready for the challenge.”

Zambia coach Nora Häuptle added:
“With five rest days, we’ve had time to recover and prepare. To win the tournament, you have to beat everyone.”

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, and the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hajia Hannatu Musa Musawa, have expressed their support for the Super Falcons ahead of the big match.

Good news for the team: midfielder Deborah Abiodun returns after missing the Algeria game due to suspension.

Esther Okoronkwo, who has shown great energy, may get her first start, possibly joining the consistent Jennifer Echegini in midfield.

The road ahead won’t get any easier. The winner of this match will face either defending champions South Africa or the strong Senegalese side in the semi-finals on Tuesday.