Zambia eye WAFCON quarter-final spot as Nigeria face must-win test

Zambia will look to secure an early place in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) quarter-finals when they face defending champions Nigeria in a crucial Group C encounter at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.

The Copper Queens made a dream start to their campaign with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt, a result that sent them to the top of the group on goal difference. Another win against Nigeria would seal their place in the knockout rounds with one group match still to play.

Nora Häuptle Expects Tougher Challenge

Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash, Zambia head coach Nora Häuptle admitted her side faces a much sterner test than in their tournament opener.

Despite the impressive victory over Egypt, the Swiss tactician insists her players remain grounded and understand the challenge awaiting them.

“The mood in camp is very positive after our opening win, but we know Nigeria is a completely different opponent. We have to adjust our approach and be ready.”

Häuptle believes the defending champions will arrive highly motivated after their disappointing start and expects them to respond with maximum intensity.

She stressed that Zambia’s focus remains firmly on executing their own game plan rather than worrying about Nigeria’s situation.

“We know Nigeria must win to stay in contention, and we respect their quality. But we have prepared well, we have a clear strategy, and this team always plays to win. We believe we can surprise them.”

Copper Queens Target Historic WAFCON Success

Forward Racheal Kundananji echoed her coach’s confidence, revealing that morale within the squad is extremely high ahead of one of the biggest matches of the group stage.

The striker acknowledged the quality of the reigning African champions but believes Zambia are fully prepared for the occasion.

“Everyone in camp is ready. We know it won’t be an easy game, but we are looking forward to the challenge. Winning would be massive for both the team and the nation.”

The Copper Queens are hoping to build on their bronze-medal finish at the previous WAFCON and are aiming to challenge for their first continental title.

Meanwhile, Nigeria head into the fixture knowing defeat would leave their title defence hanging by a thread, adding even more significance to Sunday’s showdown.

Malawi Looking to Continue Dream Start

Elsewhere in the tournament, Malawi will attempt to maintain their impressive start when they take on Egypt in another important group-stage encounter.

The Scorchers stunned defending champions Nigeria with a remarkable 3-2 victory in their opening fixture but head coach Lovemore Fazili insists his players are staying focused.

“We are not in any comfort zone,” Fazili said ahead of the match.

“This is another very difficult game because qualification has not yet been secured. Every point matters.”

The Malawi boss revealed his side has worked extensively on tactical improvements and is targeting another victory, while also keeping an eye on goal difference, which could prove decisive in the race for the knockout stages.

“We’re not only chasing three points—we also want to score goals because goal difference could become very important. The players understand exactly what’s at stake.”

Victory over Egypt would move Malawi onto six points and leave them on the verge of a historic place in the WAFCON quarter-finals.