Justin Madugu Targets Victory as Nigeria Prepare for Crucial Zambia Clash

Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu has declared that the Super Falcons will be fully focused on securing all three points when they face Zambia in a decisive Group C match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The nine-time African champions head into Saturday’s encounter under immense pressure after suffering a surprise 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their tournament opener. With their hopes of reaching the knockout stage hanging in the balance, Nigeria cannot afford another setback.

Zambia, on the other hand, enters the contest in high spirits after a dominant 6-0 victory over Egypt, a result that lifted the Copper Queens to the top of Group C.

Madugu Refuses to Dwell on Past Meetings

Although Nigeria comfortably defeated Zambia 5-0 in the quarterfinals of the previous WAFCON, Madugu believes that result has no bearing on the upcoming showdown.

“That match is part of history. This is a different tournament with different circumstances, so we are not using what happened before to judge this game,” Madugu told reporters.

Instead, the Nigerian coach said his technical bench has been analysing the current Zambian team, acknowledging the confidence they gained from their impressive opening victory.

“We know Zambia will come into this game full of belief after beating Egypt so convincingly. At the same time, we have been motivated by our own disappointment in the first match.”

Super Falcons Chasing a Must-Win Result

Madugu stressed that Nigeria’s only objective is victory, describing the fixture as crucial to keeping the team’s title hopes alive.

“We understand exactly what is at stake. Every match is played to be won, and this one is no different. Our mission is to get the result we need.”

“We are approaching this game with complete seriousness because we know our tournament depends on it.”

A victory for Zambia would guarantee the Copper Queens a place in the WAFCON quarterfinals with one group match still to play against Malawi.

For Nigeria, however, another defeat would result in an unprecedented group-stage elimination, ending the Super Falcons’ hopes of competing for an 11th continental title.