The Super Falcons of Nigeria are preparing for a high-stakes quarterfinal clash against Zambia’s Copper Queens as the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations heads into the knockout phase.
Both teams are among the top contenders in African women’s football, and Friday’s encounter is expected to deliver a fiercely contested battle.
The Super Falcons, nine-time champions and the most decorated team in WAFCON history, enter the quarterfinals as Group B winners.
Nigeria began their campaign with an emphatic 3-0 win over Tunisia, followed by a narrow 1-0 victory over Botswana. However, a goalless draw against Algeria in their final group match raised concerns over the team’s attacking output, despite finishing top of their group with seven points.
Zambia’s journey to the last eight was marked by resilience and determination. The Copper Queens held host nation Morocco to a 2-2 draw in their opening match, edged Senegal 3-2 in a dramatic contest, and sealed their place in the quarterfinals with a 1-0 win over DR Congo. They also concluded the group stage with seven points, finishing second in Group A.
Zambia will likely count on the attacking prowess of star forward Barbra Banda and the creative influence of midfielder Grace Chanda to break through Nigeria’s defense.
Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu has acknowledged concerns over the team’s lack of goals, particularly following the 0-0 stalemate against Algeria.
“The same players that were scoring before are the same ones still on the pitch. So, we need to find out why the goals are not coming and fix it,” Madugu told journalist Biola Solace-Chukwu. “It’s becoming a source of worry for us.”
He hinted at possible tactical changes ahead of the clash with Zambia and underlined the importance of revitalizing the team’s attacking edge.
Nigeria Key Players: Rasheedat Ajibade (captain), Asisat Oshoala (striker), Chiamaka Nnadozie (goalkeeper)
Zambia Key Players: Barbra Banda (forward), Grace Chanda (midfielder)
Fixture: Nigeria vs Zambia (WAFCON 2024 Quarterfinal)
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM (Nigerian Time)
Venue: Stade Larbi Zouli, Casablanca
Where to Watch: DStv SuperSport, Afrosport, SABC Sport
A semifinal berth is on the line in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most exciting matches. With Nigeria targeting a record-extending 10th title and Zambia aiming to spring an upset, all eyes will be on Casablanca.
