Noah Chivuta Warns Copper Queens to Expect Fierce Nigeria Response

Former Chipolopolo midfielder Noah Chivuta believes Zambia must be prepared for a highly motivated Nigerian side when the Copper Queens face the Super Falcons in a crucial Group C clash at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

The Copper Queens head into the encounter full of confidence after an emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt, a match in which captain Barbra Banda starred with four goals and an assist to send Zambia to the top of the group.

Nigeria, meanwhile, suffered one of the biggest shocks of the tournament after falling 3-2 to Malawi, leaving the African giants under pressure heading into Saturday’s fixture.

Chivuta Praises Zambia’s Opening Display

Speaking ahead of the match, Chivuta commended the Copper Queens for their disciplined and professional performance against Egypt.

“Zambia approached the opening game with the right mentality. Sometimes it’s easy to relax when facing a team considered weaker, but the players remained focused throughout and were rewarded with six goals,” he said.

The former international believes the dominant victory has given the squad valuable confidence but warned that Nigeria will present a much tougher challenge.

“Nigeria Will Be More Dangerous”

According to Chivuta, the Super Falcons’ opening defeat could make them an even more difficult opponent, as they will be desperate to keep their tournament hopes alive.

“Nigeria are under pressure now. Another defeat would put them in a very difficult position, so we should expect them to come out fighting from the first whistle,” he explained.

He urged Zambia to remain faithful to the tactical approach that worked against Egypt while maintaining discipline throughout the match.

“The coaching staff has done a great job, and the players need to trust that plan again. Zambia has the quality to compete with Nigeria, but concentration and discipline will be crucial.”

Pressure on the Super Falcons

Chivuta also insisted that the psychological pressure is on Nigeria rather than Zambia.

“We already have three points on the board, so we don’t need to panic. Nigeria are the team that must chase the result.”

“If Zambia earns a draw, it will still be a valuable outcome. If we manage to collect all three points, that would put us in an excellent position to reach the knockout stages.”

The Copper Queens will be aiming to maintain their impressive start to the tournament, while Nigeria will be desperate to avoid a second consecutive defeat and revive their WAFCON campaign.