10-Woman Super Falcons grab hard-fought victory over Zambia

Nigeria's Super Falcons once again returned to action at the 2026 Women's African Cup of Nations, as they faced Zambia in a repeat of last year's Women's African Cup of Nations Quarter-final fixture.

The Super Falcons came into the tie looking to make amends following their opening-day defeat.

Just eight minutes into the contest, Nigeria took the lead.

A long ball was played over the top, and Asisat Oshoala raced into space before capitalising on a spill by goalkeeper Hazel Nali to slot home the opener.

It was Oshoala's 15th goal at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations.

The opening half also saw an intriguing battle between Zambia captain Barbra Banda and Tosin Demehin, with the Galatasaray defender keeping the prolific forward under close watch.

In the 30th minute, the Super Falcons were given a scare when referee Josephine Wanjiku was called to the pitchside monitor for a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review after Banda went down following a challenge from Demehin.

Wanjiku had initially shown Demehin a yellow card, but after reviewing the incident, she rescinded the booking, allowing the Nigerian defender to remain card-free.

However, lightning struck twice. In the 40th minute, Demehin was shown a straight red card for another foul on Banda, reducing the Super Falcons to 10 players.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Nigeria dug deep and held on to their lead going into the break.

Justin Madugu made his first tactical change at halftime, replacing Rofiat Imuran with Shukurat Oladipo as he sought to reinforce his defence.

Although Zambia enjoyed more possession in the second half, they struggled to create clear-cut chances against the resilient Nigerian backline.

In the 72nd minute, goalscorer Asisat Oshoala made way for Chinwendu Ihezuo, while Halimatu Ayinde replaced Deborah Abiodun in midfield.

Chiamaka Nnadozie was called into action late in the game when Zambia threatened to break through, but the Super Falcons goalkeeper gathered the ball comfortably.

Madugu made another attacking change, introducing Esther Okoronkwo in place of Uchenna Kanu as Nigeria looked to relieve the pressure up front.

Even with 10 players, the Super Falcons continued to retain possession intelligently and frustrate the Zambian attack as they edged closer to victory.

It was a long night for Zambia's Barbra Banda - Who scored four times in the opening game, as she was largely frustrated by the pairings of Osinachi Ohale, Christy Ucheibe and Shukurat Oladipo in defense.

Five minutes into stoppage time, Grace Chanda found herself in space just outside the penalty area, but her effort sailed high over the crossbar, much to Nigeria's relief.

Moments later, referee Josephine Wanjiku blew the final whistle, confirming Nigeria's first victory of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.

The 10-time African champions will now turn their attention to their next group-stage fixture against Egypt.