Falcons learnt from Malawi defeat, says Alozie

Nigeria's Super Falcons demonstrated resilience and determination in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The win came despite the team being reduced to 10 players from the 40th minute after defender Tosin Demehin received a straight red card. Asisat Oshoala's eighth-minute goal proved decisive, securing vital points for the defending champions.

Defender Michelle Alozie, who was named Player of the Match, emphasized the lessons learned from their earlier 3-2 defeat to Malawi. "We learned the lesson after playing against Malawi, so we knew we needed to drop the line," Alozie stated, acknowledging the toughness of the Zambian team. She praised her teammates' collective effort, saying, "It was a hell of a game. Tosin played her heart out. It was unfortunate that she was shown a red card, but I’m glad we were able to come together with a player down and get the win."

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We learned the lesson after playing against Malawi, so we knew we needed to drop the line.

The victory places Nigeria third in Group C with three points, keeping their quarterfinal aspirations alive. Malawi leads the group with six points after defeating Egypt 3-1, while Zambia also has three points. Nigeria faces a must-win scenario in their final group match against Egypt, coupled with hoping for a favorable result in the simultaneous game between Malawi and Zambia, to advance in the tournament and continue their pursuit of an 11th continental title and a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.

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It was a hell of a game. Tosin played her heart out. It was unfortunate that she was shown a red card, but I’m glad we were able to come together with a player down and get the win.