The stage is set for one of the most anticipated clashes in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as Zambia’s Copper Queens lock horns with the record champions, Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
Nigeria has dominated African women’s football for decades, but Zambia is writing a fresh script. The two teams have met twice in WAFCON history:
In 2014, Nigeria won convincingly 3–0.
In 2022, Zambia stunned the Falcons 1–0 to clinch bronze , their first ever WAFCON medal.
Now, with a semi-final spot on the line, both teams have a score to settle.
Nigeria topped Group B, but their performances were far from convincing. Despite creating chances, they struggled to convert , registering just two shots on target in their goalless draw with Algeria. There’s concern around their finishing and lack of a consistent goalscorer.
Zambia, on the other hand, finished second in Group A behind Morocco. Their journey has been marked by resilience. A 2–2 draw with Morocco, a goal mouth action of 1m3–2 win over Senegal, and a controlled 1-0 victory over DR Congo showed tactical growth under Coach Norah Hauptle. The team is starting to gel, and their forwards , Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji are in form.
Coach Norah Hauptle remains focused and unfazed: “To reach the final, you must beat whoever stands in the way. The girls are ready.” she declared. This is confidence that the girls need without a doubt
Her counterpart, Nigeria’s Coach Justin Madugu, emphasized squad depth and preparation, noting that they’ve analyzed Zambia and have a plan to neutralize their threats.
STAR PLAYERS
Racheal Kundananji: Calm, composed, and lethal. Her goals have carried Zambia through tight moments.
Barbra Banda: Captain and leader, she continues to be a thorn in the side of every defense.
Jennifer Echegini (Nigeria): A key creative force in midfield who can unlock defenses with a single pass.
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria GK): Her shot-stopping ability and experience are vital.
Zambia may also turn to new spark Evelyn Katongo, whose debut showed passing precision and midfield stability. Musole, the goalkeeper, bounced back with key saves and proved that constructive criticism can bring growth.
Zambians are buzzing with confidence. Many believe Nigeria can be beaten again, especially given the tactical identity Coach Norah has instilled. Others remain cautiously optimistic, pointing out that Nigeria’s pedigree makes them dangerous even when not in top form.
From the Nigerian side, some fans are concerned about the Falcons’ inconsistency and lack of sharpness in front of goal, while others insist experience will prevail.
Meanwhile, Morocco enjoys the smoother path, potentially facing a best third-placed team in their quarter-final , a reminder that in tournaments, strategic wins can shape the journey.
Zambia enters this game with a mental edge from the last WAFCON win and a visible improvement in tactical structure. Nigeria’s experience is unquestioned, but cracks have begun to show in their finishing and cohesion.
This clash promises fireworks. It could be tight, tense, and decided by fine margins , possibly even penalties.
Zambia has proven that they no longer fear the giants , and if there’s a time to believe, it is now.
