Nigeria vs. Zambia: Women's Africa Cup of Nations Game, Updates on Teams, Scorers, and Statistics

Date: Friday 18th July, 2025
Time: 8:00 pm
Stadium Larbi Zaouli Stadium, Casablanca

Team Updates

Nigeria

The Super Falcons, Nigeria’s women's national football team, stand as the supreme force in African soccer. They have clinched nine WAFCON championships out of twelve tournaments ahead of the current one, dominating the scene for years. Since their initial victory in 1991 through to their most recent win in 2018, the Falcons have set high standards in the sport, nurturing iconic athletes like Perpetua Nkwocha, Mercy Akide, and Asisat Oshoala, a six-time best player in Africa.

Under the guidance of coach Justin Madugu, the Super Falcons topped Group B, accumulating seven points while maintaining a clean sheet in defense. Their results included a 3-0 triumph over Tunisia, a slim 1-0 win against Botswana, and a goalless draw with Algeria, exemplifying their solid tactical approach and defensive strength.

Nigeria displays composure, organization, and patience on the field. Madugu has reinforced their defense and emphasized the importance of teamwork.

“We defend as one and attack as one,” remarked Plumptre. “We take pride in going through the group stage without letting in any goals.”

However, the Falcons have faced challenges in scoring, a fact noted by Madugu. “We’re working hard to enhance our goal-scoring efficiency. Improvement takes time; it’s not instant. But I have confidence that the players will step up.”

Zambia

In contrast, Zambia has become a formidable opponent in only the past five years. Their bronze medal win in 2022, following a historic 1-0 victory over Nigeria in the third-place match, was a significant milestone, proving they could not just compete with top teams but also emerge victorious against them.

That triumph in 2022 was Zambia’s first-ever win against Nigeria in WAFCON history. Prior encounters saw the Falcons overwhelmingly defeat them, with scores of 6-0 in 2014 and 4-0 in 2018. However, Zambia’s golden generation, featuring stars like Barbra Banda, Grace Chanda, and Racheal Kundananji, has transformed them from underdogs to serious adversaries.

Under Swiss coach Florence Hauptle, Zambia matched their group stage performance but finished second in Group A behind Morocco on goal difference. The Copper Queens drew 2-2 with the host nation, won a thrilling contest against Senegal 3-2, and secured a 1-0 victory over DR Congo.

The team thrives in dynamic, high-paced play and quick transitions.

Prediction: Nigeria 1-0 Zambia