Nigeria Falcons Aim for WAFCON Quarter-Final Spot

The Nigeria Women's National Football Team, 10-time champions, is seeking a quarter-final ticket in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as they prepare to face Egypt in their final Group C match in Rabat. After a surprising 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening game, Nigeria rebounded with a 1-0 victory over Zambia.

A win against Egypt would bring Nigeria to six points, contingent on the outcome of the match between Malawi and Zambia. Egypt, having lost 6-0 to Zambia and 3-1 to Malawi, poses a challenge that Nigeria's coach, Justine Madugu, is not underestimating.

Madugu faces the task of replacing defender Tosin Demehin and midfielder Jennifer Echegini due to disciplinary issues. Demehin was sent off against Zambia, while Echegini received two yellow cards in previous matches.

The team’s lineup may include Christy Ucheibe and Osinachi Ohale in defense, with Toni Payne and captain Rasheedat Ajibade in midfield. The group standings are tight, with Malawi leading, followed by Nigeria and Zambia, all vying for advancement.