Nigeria’s Super Falcons face a major test against Zambia’s Copper Queens in their second Group C fixture at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday. The defending champions need a positive result after their unexpected 3-2 defeat to Malawi, while Zambia come into the contest with confidence following their emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt.
Banda the biggest threat
Zambia captain Barbra Banda will be one of Nigeria’s biggest concerns after she scored four goals in the Copper Queens’ opening win. Her pace, strength and finishing ability make her a dangerous opponent, particularly against a Nigerian defence that conceded three times to Malawi. The Falcons will have to prevent Banda from finding space behind their backline.
Ajibade carries Nigeria’s hopes
Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to be central to Nigeria’s response. The Paris Saint-Germain star brings energy, creativity and experience to the Falcons’ attack and will be relied upon to connect midfield with the forwards. Zambia are likely to focus on limiting her influence, but any freedom given to the Nigerian captain could prove costly.
Kundananji adds more danger
Banda is not Zambia’s only attacking threat, with Racheal Kundananji providing another major problem for Nigeria. Her speed and direct running complement Banda’s style and helped stretch Egypt’s defence in the opening match. Nigeria’s defenders will need to maintain their shape and concentration throughout the encounter to prevent the Zambian forwards from exploiting gaps.
Nnadozie, Okoronkwo key
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie will also have a vital role to play as Nigeria attempt to contain Zambia’s attacking duo. The Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper is expected to provide leadership at the back, while Esther Okoronkwo could offer Nigeria a decisive attacking outlet. Okoronkwo scored and supplied two assists when Nigeria defeated Zambia 5-0 at the previous WAFCON, giving her an impressive record against the Copper Queens.
Falcons cannot afford another slip
With Nigeria needing to recover from their Malawi setback and Zambia looking to build on their opening-day demolition of Egypt, the encounter promises to be one of Group C’s defining matches. Nigeria defeated Zambia 5-0 in their last WAFCON meeting, but the Copper Queens have since developed into a stronger side. For the Falcons, keeping Banda and Kundananji quiet while giving Ajibade and Okoronkwo enough freedom could determine whether their title defence gets back on track.
