Asisat Oshoala scored the only goal as Nigeria revived their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 1-0 victory over Zambia in Morocco.
The experienced forward returned to the starting XI after being left on the bench for Nigeria’s opening Group C defeat by Malawi and made an immediate contribution, scoring after just eight minutes.
Her performance earned praise from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which highlighted the striker’s impact after she helped the nine-time African champions secure a much-needed victory.
Oshoala’s decisive moment came when she ran onto a long pass from Rasheedat Ajibade before keeping her composure to beat the Zambian goalkeeper and give Nigeria an early lead.
The goal proved particularly important after Nigeria were reduced to 10 players for much of the match.
Super Falcons defender Tosin Demehin was shown a red card following a challenge on Zambia forward Barbra Banda, leaving Nigeria with a numerical disadvantage as they attempted to protect their lead.
Despite playing with one fewer player, Nigeria held on to claim all three points, with Oshoala continuing to pose a threat to the Zambian defence before she was eventually substituted.
Her display was a significant response after Nigeria’s disappointing start to the tournament.
The loss to Malawi had put pressure on the Super Falcons in Group C, making a positive result against Zambia particularly important. Oshoala’s early goal ultimately provided the difference as Nigeria secured the victory they needed to keep their campaign alive.
CAF praised the forward’s performance following the match, posting a video of her celebrating her goal on its official X account.
The governing body accompanied the footage with the caption: “Still got it. Still showing it. Energy of the Day today.”
The victory gives Nigeria renewed confidence ahead of their final Group C match against Egypt.
The Super Falcons know exactly what is required from that fixture, with victory enough to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
For Oshoala, the match against Zambia was an opportunity to respond after starting the tournament as a substitute against Malawi. Her return to the starting lineup immediately paid off, with her eighth-minute finish giving Nigeria the platform they needed to recover from their opening defeat.
The striker also had to operate under difficult circumstances after Demehin’s dismissal, but continued to lead Nigeria’s attacking efforts before leaving the pitch.
Nigeria’s ability to protect their advantage with 10 players was another important feature of the result. Zambia were unable to find an equaliser, allowing the Super Falcons to take a vital three points from a demanding contest.
The result also means Nigeria’s hopes of progressing beyond the group stage remain firmly in their own hands. Their final fixture against Egypt on Wednesday now takes on added importance, with a win guaranteeing a quarter-final place.
Oshoala’s contribution could prove crucial as Nigeria attempt to build momentum following their setback against Malawi.
After returning to the starting side, she produced the decisive finish, helped her team withstand a difficult spell after the red card and left the field having played a central role in a result that could reshape Nigeria’s WAFCON campaign.
The Super Falcons will now prepare for Egypt knowing another victory would complete their recovery from their opening-day disappointment and send them into the knockout stage.
