Latest News
WAFCON 2024: Zambia vs Nigeria – Quarterfinal Preview
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Two of Africa’s strongest women’s football nations, Zambia and Nigeria, are set to collide in a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Friday. This marks the fourth meeting between the sides in the last five editions of the tournament—and with a semifinal spot up for grabs, the stakes have never been higher.
Route to the Quarterfinals
Both teams arrive unbeaten from the group stage, showing form that justifies their reputations:
Nigeria topped Group B with two wins and a draw, continuing their long-standing dominance at WAFCON.
Zambia impressed in Group A, finishing second with seven points, edged out only on goal difference by tournament hosts Morocco.
A Fierce and Evolving Rivalry
Historically, Nigeria has dominated this fixture—most notably with crushing aggregate wins (10-0) in 2014 and 2018. However, Zambia’s stunning 1-0 victory in the 2022 third-place playoff hinted at a new era. The Copper Queens are no longer just hopefuls; they’re contenders.
That win in 2022 wasn’t just symbolic—it marked Zambia’s rise as a serious force in African women’s football. Now, with more experience and firepower, they’ll look to prove that result was no fluke.
Key Players to Watch
Zambia
Barbra Banda – The reigning African Women’s Player of the Year, Banda’s pace, strength, and clinical finishing make her one of the continent’s most feared forwards.
Racheal Kundananji – A perfect complement to Banda, her intelligent movement and goal-scoring instincts add depth and danger to Zambia’s attack.
Nigeria
Rinsola Babajide – The dynamic winger has been a creative spark for the Super Falcons, contributing two goal involvements and constantly troubling defenders.
Chinwendu Ihezuo – Though mostly used off the bench, her two goals in the group stage show her potential as a game-changer—even if she was subdued in the final group match against Algeria.
Tactical Overview
Nigeria brings a balanced approach—sturdy in defence with three consecutive clean sheets, while remaining potent going forward. Their ability to shut down threats, especially in tight knockout games, could be crucial.
Zambia, by contrast, thrives on attacking explosiveness. Their speed in transition, especially through Banda and Kundananji, allows them to stretch defences and create high-quality chances quickly. If given space, they could do real damage.
What’s at Stake?
A semifinal spot
A step closer to continental glory
And perhaps most importantly, bragging rights in a fast-growing football rivalry
For Nigeria, it’s about reasserting their status as Africa’s queens of football. For Zambia, it’s another opportunity to prove they belong at the top—and that 2022 was just the beginning.
Prediction: Too close to call—expect a tactical battle, individual brilliance, and perhaps, extra time.
