A heavyweight quarterfinal clash awaits as nine-time champions Nigeria take on the rising force of women’s Africa Cup of nations (WAFCON) , Zambia, in Casablanca.
For Nigeria’s Super Falcons, it’s about reaffirming their dominance and pushing toward a record-extending 10th WAFCON title.
For Zambia’s Copper Queens, it’s another chance to break barriers and prove that their bronze medal finish in 2022 was no fluke.
Both sides enter the knockout phase unbeaten, but only one will leave with a semifinal ticket.
Nigeria – Cautiously Confident
The Super Falcons topped Group B with 7 points, winning two matches and drawing one, all without conceding a goal.
Their campaign began with a 3-0 win over Tunisia, followed by a 1-0 victory over Botswana, and a goalless draw against Algeria. While defensively solid, Nigeria’s attack has yet to fully click.
Coach Justin Madugu may finally hand a start to dynamic forward Esther Okoronkwo, who’s impressed off the bench.
Chinwendu Ihezuo. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Midfield anchor Halimatu Ayinde and PSG’s Jennifer Echegini have been standouts, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie remains a rock between the sticks.
READ MORE: Halimatu Ayinde: Super Falcons must believe ahead of Zambia WAFCON quarter-final
Asisat Oshoala is fit but yet to find her rhythm, and may make way for in-form striker Chinwendu Ihezuo, Nigeria’s top scorer so far with two goals.
Zambia – Riding Momentum
Zambia finished second in Group A, level on points with hosts Morocco but behind on goal difference. The Copper Queens began with a 2-2 draw against the Atlas Lionesses, followed by a 3-2 win over Senegal and a narrow 1-0 triumph over DR Congo.
All six of Zambia’s goals in the group stage were scored by their deadly attacking duo Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji.
Barbra Banda has scored 3 goals in Wafcon 2024 for Zambia. Photo Credit: X
Banda, the reigning African Women’s Footballer of the Year, brings explosive pace and finishing ability, while Kundananji’s clever movement and physicality make her just as dangerous.
Coach Nora Häuptle has instilled tactical discipline into the team, and with five days to recover, Zambia will be fresh and fired up.
Head-to-Head History
- 2014: Nigeria 6-0 Zambia
- 2018: Nigeria 4-0 Zambia
- 2022: Zambia 1-0 Nigeria (bronze medal match – own goal by Nigeria)
Despite Zambia’s historic win in 2022, no Zambian player has ever scored from open play against Nigeria in WAFCON history.
Tactical Battle
Nigeria will rely on their structured midfield trio to dominate possession and limit service to Banda and Kundananji.
Nigeria against Zambia in 2022 WAFCON in Morocco. Photo Credit: X
The Falcons’ experience and defensive organisation make them hard to break down, but their lack of cutting edge in front of goal remains a concern.
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Zambia, on the other hand, will look to absorb pressure and hit Nigeria on the break, exploiting the spaces behind the full-backs through their front two.
Players to Watch
- Nigeria: Ashleigh Plumptre, Jennifer Echegini, Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo
- Zambia: Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji, Lushomo Mweemba
Predicted Lineups
Nigeria (4-3-3):
Nnadozie; Alozie, Ohale, Demehin, Plumptre; Abiodun, Ayinde, Echegini; Ajibade, Ihezuo, Okoronkwo
Zambia (4-2-3-1):
Musole; Nachula, Maluba, Mweemba, Tembo; Lungu, Wilombe; Chilufya, Chanda, Kundananji; Banda
Date: Friday, 18 July 2025
Kick Off: 6pm Nigerian time.
Prediction
This promises to be a tense, tactical affair. Nigeria’s experience and organisation give them a narrow edge, but Zambia’s attacking duo will cause problems. Expect fine margins to decide the tie.
Prediction: Nigeria 1-0 Zambia
