Alozie’s outstanding defensive display earned her the Player of the Match award before she was selected for routine anti-doping procedures.
Michelle Alozie was selected for a routine anti-doping test after delivering a Player of the Match performance in Nigeria’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group C fixture at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON 2026).
The Super Falcons defender confirmed after the game that she underwent the mandatory post-match drug screening, a standard procedure carried out on randomly selected players during major international tournaments.
Alozie produced one of her most impressive performances in a Nigeria shirt, playing the full 90 minutes as the Super Falcons held on for an important victory despite being reduced to 10 players following Blessing Demehin’s red card in the second half.
Initially deployed at right-back, the Chicago Stars defender later switched to the left side of the defence after Nigeria reorganised tactically. Her composure, timely interceptions and crucial clearances helped limit Zambia’s attacking threats, with the Copper Queens managing only two shots on target throughout the contest.
Her outstanding display earned her the Player of the Match award, although the 29-year-old was quick to play down individual recognition after the final whistle.
Speaking after completing the mandatory drug test, Alozie said the victory was a collective effort rather than the achievement of one player.
“Yes, that is true,” Alozie said when asked about the drug testing.
“I don’t really know if I deserve the Player of the Match award. I think it was really a team effort, and we really came out on top today.”
The result represented a strong response from the Super Falcons after their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi, keeping Nigeria firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stages of the competition.
Nigeria will now turn their attention to their final Group C fixture against Egypt on August 5, with victory expected to secure qualification for the WAFCON quarter-finals.