Nigeria’s title defence set for early blockbuster clash with Barbra Banda’s Zambia.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria reigning champions of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) have been drawn in a competitive Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi at the upcoming WAFCON 2026 tournament in Morocco. The expanded 16-team continental fiesta is scheduled to take place from March 17 to April 3, 2026.
Nigeria’s title defence will feature a highly anticipated clash against the Zambian Copper Queens, spearheaded by prolific forwards Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji — two African stars who have been among the most feared attackers in women’s football in recent seasons.
The Falcons’ meeting with Zambia renews a familiar rivalry. At the 2024 edition in Morocco, Nigeria enjoyed a commanding 5-0 victory over the Copper Queens in the quarter-finals, a result that helped set the tone for their record-extending 10th WAFCON title triumph.
In addition to Zambia, Nigeria will face Egypt, who return to the tournament after a long absence, and debutants Malawi, who will play their first ever WAFCON finals marking a historic moment for the Southeast African nation.
The Falcons, coached by Justine Madugu, will be looking to build on their recent continental dominance and secure a record-extending 11th WAFCON championship. Nigeria’s vast experience in big tournament settings often positions them as favourites, but Group C promises to be competitive with Zambia’s attacking quality and Egypt’s improving squad offering stern tests.
Matches involving the Nigerian champions, including the blockbuster showdown with Zambia, are set to be played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, one of four venues across Morocco that will host the tournament’s group stage fixtures.
As the continental showpiece doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, the stakes are even higher with the top four semifinalists earning direct qualification and others progressing through inter-confederation playoffs.
Stay tuned to Hot Sports Scoops for full coverage and tactical breakdowns as the Super Falcons’ WAFCON title defence approaches.