Nigeria Vs Zambia: Head-to-Head, Prediction, Key Players To Watch, Other Details

Nigeria Vs Zambia: Head-to-Head, Prediction, Key Players To Watch, Other Details 

By Admin 

As the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) enters the quarterfinal stage, Nigeria’s Super Falcons prepare for a pivotal encounter against Zambia’s Copper Queens on Friday, July 18, at 19:00 local time, at the Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, Morocco.

Nigeria, the tournament's most decorated side, advanced from Group B as leaders with seven points, securing victories over Tunisia (3–0) and Botswana (1–0), and playing to a goalless draw with Algeria. While they’ve maintained a perfect defensive record, concerns linger over their finishing—highlighted by their 24-shot performance against Algeria that yielded just two shots on target.

Zambia, on the other hand, emerged as runners-up in Group A, showcasing an attacking flair throughout the group stage. They began with a 2–2 draw against hosts Morocco, edged Senegal 3–2, and closed with a narrow 1–0 win over DR Congo, demonstrating both resilience and attacking momentum.

Key Players to Watch

Nigeria

Asisat Oshoala: Africa’s most prolific women’s striker and WAFCON’s all-time top scorer. The Barcelona star has just one goal in the tournament and will be expected to rediscover her form on Friday.

Rasheedat Ajibade: The Atlético Madrid playmaker has been instrumental in creating chances, frequently unlocking defenses with her runs and passes. She was unlucky not to win a penalty against Algeria.

Chiamaka Nnadozie: The Bayern Munich goalkeeper has been a standout performer, with commanding presence and crucial saves across the group stage.

Zambia

Barbra Banda: The Copper Queens' captain and record scorer is a dynamic forward known for her pace, strength, and clinical finishing. She remains Zambia's biggest threat.

Racheal Kundananji: A creative engine in Zambia's attack, Kundananji has combined well with Banda to form one of the tournament’s most feared duos.

Tactical Breakdown

Nigeria prefers a 4-3-3 formation, utilizing quick wingers and midfield dominance to control possession. However, their inefficiency in front of goal, especially against Algeria, underscores the need for more clinical execution.

Zambia lines up in a 4-2-3-1, blending disciplined midfield structure with a fluid, attacking front led by Banda and Kundananji. They thrive on transitions and are particularly dangerous when opponents overcommit.

Key Battles:

Oshoala vs Zambia’s Backline: Can Nigeria’s star striker finally break free and find the net?

Ajibade vs Zambian Midfield: The midfield duel will be central to dictating the game’s tempo.

Nnadozie vs Zambia’s Attack: Her command of the penalty area and response to rapid counters will be vital.

Challenges and Weaknesses

Nigeria’s biggest concern is goal conversion—despite dominating possession and territory, the Super Falcons have struggled to make it count.

Zambia’s defensive organization, while improved, remains vulnerable under sustained pressure. Their 3-2 victory over Senegal exposed moments of defensive fragility that Nigeria will look to exploit.

Head-to-Head & Historical Context

In their most recent WAFCON meeting, Nigeria edged Zambia 1–0 in the 2022 third-place playoff. However, Zambia’s continued growth on the international stage—highlighted by their Olympic qualification and global exposure—means the gap has narrowed considerably.

Match Outlook & Prediction

Nigeria enters the fixture as slight favourites, bolstered by a robust defense and a wealth of tournament experience. However, Zambia's dynamic attack ensures that the Super Falcons cannot afford complacency.

Prediction: Nigeria 2–1 Zambia – A closely contested encounter, likely settled in extra time or late in the match.