Nigeria’s Super Falcons beat Zambia 1-0 and will face Egypt on Wednesday in Rabat for a place in the WAFCON quarter-finals.
The result followed Nigeria’s opening defeat to Malawi and gave the defending champions another chance to advance from Group C. Nigeria also played with 10 players for much of the Zambia match but protected its lead until the final whistle.
Glory Ogbonna said the squad entered the Zambia game determined to make amends for the Malawi result.
“After the loss to Malawi, we knew we had to respond. Everyone understood the importance of the Zambia game, and we were determined to show our fighting spirit,” Ogbonna said.
The defender also praised her teammates for their work after Nigeria lost a player before half-time.
“We showed resilience and tenacity. Playing with one player less wasn’t easy, but everyone worked hard for each other because we all share the same goal of winning this trophy and remaining champions of Africa,” she added.
Nigeria now turns its attention to Egypt, with the result carrying direct consequences for the team’s progress in the tournament.
The Super Falcons won the 2024 WAFCON title in Morocco and are chasing an 11th title. Ogbonna said the players intend to stay in the competition until they achieve their target.
“We’ll keep fighting until we lift the trophy.”
Wednesday’s match against Egypt will determine Nigeria’s place in the WAFCON quarter-finals.
