Nigeria must defeat Egypt in their final Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Group C fixture today to reach the quarter-finals, while also preserving their pursuit of an 11th continental crown and a place at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Super Falcons focused on decisive result
Head coach Justin Madugu and defender Osinachi Ohale say Nigeria have recovered their confidence and are prepared for the pressure of the decisive encounter. The Super Falcons are seeking to regain control of their campaign after an uncertain opening to the tournament.
Madugu, who guided Nigeria to the previous WAFCON title, said the squad was in a positive frame of mind and fully aware of the qualification requirements. He added that the team had reviewed every possible scenario and understood precisely what result would carry them into the next round.
Ohale stressed that the meeting with Egypt demanded an even higher level of concentration than Nigeria’s opening two matches. She said the players knew the significance of the fixture and would show more discipline and commitment than they did in the contest against Zambia.
Champions recover after Malawi shock
The defending champions began the competition with a dramatic 3-2 defeat against debutants Malawi, but have since moved beyond that setback. They responded with a narrow 1-0 victory over Zambia, surviving the latter stages with 10 players after defender Tosin Demehin was dismissed for pulling back Barbra Banda as she raced through on goal.
- Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty and Uchenna Kanu scored in stoppage time as Nigeria fought back during the defeat by Malawi.
- Asisat Oshoala delivered the winning goal in the subsequent victory over Zambia.
Egypt eliminated but not underestimated
Egypt enter the final group match with their hopes effectively over after heavy defeats to Zambia and Malawi. They were beaten 6-0 by Zambia before suffering a 3-1 loss to Malawi, although Madugu has warned his players against treating the opposition lightly.
Nigeria will also be without Demehin and midfielder Jennifer Echegini. Demehin is suspended following her red card, while Echegini must sit out after collecting the required number of yellow cards.
Madugu is therefore expected to deploy Christy Ucheibe alongside Ohale in central defence. Toni Payne is also likely to join captain Ajibade and Halimatu Ayinde in midfield, with Kanu again set to partner Oshoala in attack.
