Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has revealed that the team was determined to give everything on the pitch to avoid consecutive defeats at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), following their crucial victory over Zambia.
Nigeria entered the match under immense pressure after suffering a surprising 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening group game. Needing a positive result to keep their title defence alive, the defending champions responded with a disciplined performance to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win.
The task became more difficult just before halftime when defender Oluwatosin Demehin received a red card for a foul on Zambia captain Barbra Banda, leaving the Falcons to play with 10 players for the remainder of the match.
Despite being a player down, Nigeria held firm after Asisat Oshoala scored the only goal of the encounter in the eighth minute. The team successfully contained Zambia’s dangerous attack, led by Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie produced an impressive performance to preserve the lead.
Speaking after the match, Ajibade said the players knew victory was non-negotiable following the opening defeat to Malawi.
She explained that the team approached the game with total commitment and determination, believing they had to give everything possible to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Ajibade also credited her faith for helping her remain calm after Demehin’s dismissal. She said she trusted God throughout the match and believed the team would overcome the difficult situation despite being reduced to 10 players against one of Africa’s strongest attacking sides.
According to the captain, there was never any panic within the squad, as every player remained confident they could protect their lead and secure the much-needed victory.
The win has revived Nigeria’s chances of reaching the knockout stage. The Super Falcons will now face Egypt in their final group match, needing at least a draw to book a place in the next round as they continue their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.