WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons face Egypt in Quarter-final decider

Four days after reviving their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a battling victory over Zambia, the Super Falcons return to action on Wednesday knowing another win is essential if they are to secure a place in the quarter-finals and keep their title defence alive.

Nigeria’s journey in Morocco has been anything but straightforward. A stunning 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C fixture left the defending champions on the brink of an early exit before they responded with a resilient 1-0 victory over Zambia despite playing most of the encounter with 10 players.

Now, the 10-time African champions must overcome Egypt in their final group game in Rabat and hope the result in the other Group C fixture between Malawi and Zambia works in their favour.

Victory would move Nigeria onto six points, but qualification could still depend on how events unfold elsewhere in the group.

Madugu forced into another reshuffle

Head coach Justin Madugu once again faces major selection decisions after losing two key players to suspension.

Galatasaray defender, Oluwatosin Demehin is unavailable after her red card against Zambia for bringing down Barbra Banda when the Copper Queens captain was through on goal, while Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Jennifer Echegini misses out after accumulating yellow cards in Nigeria’s opening two matches.

While Madugu’s tactical changes against Zambia paid off handsomely, further adjustments are expected against Egypt.

Christy Ucheibe, who impressed after dropping into central defence following Demehin’s dismissal, is expected to partner veteran Osinachi Ohale at the heart of the backline.

In midfield, Toni Payne appears the favourite to replace Echegini alongside captain Rasheedat Ajibade, while Halimatu Ayinde could also…