# Uchenna Kanu dismisses Zambia record as Nigeria seek WAFCON revival

Uchenna Kanu says Nigeria are not concerned by Zambia’s impressive unbeaten group-stage record at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the defending champions needing a positive result to keep their title defence alive.

Nigeria suffered a shock 3-2 defeat by WAFCON debutants Malawi in their Group C opener, leaving Justine Madugu’s side under pressure before Saturday’s meeting with the Copper Queens.

Despite Zambia’s strong tournament record, Kanu said past results would have no influence on the latest contest.

“It doesn’t matter,” the Nigeria forward said, stressing that the Super Falcons would approach Zambia in the same way they approach every opponent.

Zambia have not lost a group-stage match at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since 2018 and began this year’s competition in emphatic fashion, beating Egypt 6-0.

Captain Barbra Banda was central to that victory, scoring four goals and providing one assist as the Copper Queens immediately underlined their attacking threat.

Nigeria, by contrast, were punished for defensive mistakes against Malawi. Temwa Chawinga and Tabitha Chawinga exposed gaps in the champions’ defence, while poor communication and sloppy defending contributed to a damaging opening loss.

Kanu, speaking to Femi Pereira in Morocco ahead of the must-win fixture, acknowledged the disappointment within the Nigeria camp but said the players were focused on correcting the problems that emerged in their first match.

The 29-year-old Cruz Azul forward said Nigeria respect all their opponents equally and are concentrating on producing the performance required against Zambia, rather than dwelling on the Copper Queens’ previous record.

She also revealed that the squad had intentionally shielded itself from criticism after the defeat by Malawi. Kanu said the players did not want outside noise to disrupt their preparations for the crucial Group C encounter.

The result against Zambia could prove decisive for Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Another setback would leave the defending champions in a difficult position, while a positive result would revive their prospects of progressing and continuing their attempt to retain the title.

Zambia will enter the match with confidence after their comprehensive victory over Egypt and will aim to extend their unbeaten group-stage run. Nigeria, meanwhile, must respond quickly to their opening disappointment if they are to remain in contention.

The Super Falcons are ten-time African champions, but their defeat by Malawi means they cannot afford another underwhelming display. Kanu’s message is that Nigeria’s attention is firmly on Saturday’s match and on delivering the response needed to put their campaign back on track.