WAFCON 2024, Nigeria vs Zambia: Super Falcons Eye Semis in Casablanca Showdown
Nine-time champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons are locked and loaded for a seismic quarterfinal battle against Zambia’s Copper Queens in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). With a record-extending 10th title in sight, the Falcons are determined to reassert their dominance on the continent.
Coach Justin Madugu has instilled tactical discipline and mental steel in a side that topped Group B unbeaten, scoring four goals and conceding none.
‘We’re not just prepared—we’re focused,’ Madugu declared. “There will be no room for errors. The girls know what’s at stake. Mission X is alive.”
At the heart of Nigeria’s impenetrable backline is Ashleigh Plumptre, named in the tournament’s Group Stage Best XI.
Her leadership and composure will be key in neutralizing Zambia’s explosive duo of Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, who have scored all six of Zambia’s goals.
‘We respect Zambia’s attack,’ Plumptre said. ‘But we prepare for the whole team—not just two players. We defend as one, and we attack as one.’
The return of Deborah Abiodun adds grit and creativity to Nigeria’s midfield, complementing the dynamism of Rasheedat Ajibade and Jennifer Echegini. With Chioma Okafor sidelined, expect Esther Okoronkwo and Chinwendu Ihezuo to step up in attack.
Zambia, though spirited, will miss Xiomara Mapepa, while Grace Chanda returns to bolster their midfield. But Nigeria’s depth and experience give them the edge.
Zambia stunned Nigeria in the 2022 third-place playoff, but history favors the Falcons—who won 6–0 in 2014 and 4–0 in 2018. This clash is more than a semifinal ticket; it’s a battle for supremacy.
With Asisat Oshoala leading the line and Chiamaka Nnadozie guarding the posts, Nigeria is poised to silence doubters and surge toward continental glory.
