Asisat Oshoala’s early goal proved decisive as Nigeria survived a second-half numerical disadvantage to secure a crucial victory over Zambia at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria’s Super Falcons have breathed new life into their 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign, battling to a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Zambia in Rabat.
The decisive moment came early in the encounter when veteran striker Asisat Oshoala found the back of the net, giving Nigeria the lead they would ultimately protect until the final whistle.
The victory came despite Nigeria being reduced to 10 players after defender Blessing Demehin was shown a red card in the 40th minute following a foul involving Zambia forward Barbra Banda.
Oshoala Delivers When Falcons Needed It Most
Oshoala’s early strike gave Nigeria the platform they needed in a game that would eventually turn into a test of defensive discipline and resilience.
The Super Falcons had to withstand sustained pressure from the Copper Queens after losing a player, but the Nigerian side refused to surrender their advantage.
The narrow victory gives Nigeria a vital three points and revives their hopes of progressing from Group C after their opening defeat to Malawi.
Demehin Red Card Changes the Game
Nigeria’s task became significantly harder when Demehin was dismissed in the 40th minute.
The defender was sent off after bringing down Zambia’s Barbra Banda, leaving the Super Falcons to play the majority of the remaining contest with only 10 players.
Rather than collapse under the pressure, Nigeria dug deep and protected the lead.
The defensive effort ultimately paid off as the final whistle confirmed a 1–0 victory.
Falcons Bounce Back
The result represents a major boost for Nigeria after their opening Group C defeat.
The Super Falcons entered the Zambia clash needing a positive result to keep their campaign on track, and Oshoala’s goal combined with a disciplined defensive performance delivered exactly that.
The victory also sets up an intriguing battle for qualification as the group remains tightly contested.
For Nigeria, the message from Rabat is clear: despite the setbacks, the defending champions are still very much alive.