Nigeria Women vs Zambia Women WAFCON Preview
Defending champions Nigeria will be desperate to bounce back from a shock opening defeat when they face Zambia in their second Group C fixture at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
With the Zambians already showing their attacking quality in their first outing, goals could be expected here.
Key Stats
- Nigeria’s last five matches have produced over 2.5 goals.
- Five of Zambia’s last nine matches have produced over 2.5 goals.
- Three of the last four matches between Nigeria and Zambia have produced over 2.5 goals.
Super Falcons on Top
Nigeria have picked up three wins while Zambia have been victorious just once in four previous matches. The most recent meeting was a quarter-final clash at the last WAFCON, with the Super Falcons easing to a 5-0 victory.
Super Falcons’ Dose of Reality
Nigeria began their title defence with a shocking 3-2 defeat to debutants Malawi. They were second best throughout the contest and attempted a late comeback through Rasheedat Ajibade and Uchenna Kanu but fell just short.
While it was a disappointing start, Nigeria have a glorious history at the WAFCON and will still be hopeful of getting back on track. The 10-time champions also showed good form heading into the tournament, claiming four straight wins before their opening fixture.
One worrying thing for manager Justin Madugu is their recent defensive showings, as they were constantly opened up by Malawi. The good news is that there is quality going forward with the likes of Kanu and Ajibade, and this has seen their last five matches produce over 2.5 goals.
Flying Start for Zambia
Zambia were in rampant mood in their opening fixture, easing to a 6-0 victory over Egypt. Barbra Banda scored four goals while Eneless Phiri and Racheal Nachula were also on target.
The result and number of goals mean Zambia are now in control of Group C, and are well positioned to qualify. It is also part of a recent run of good results as Nora Hauptle’s team are unbeaten in five of their last six matches in all competitions.
The victory over Egypt also highlighted Zambia’s attacking quality, although they have shown some defensive vulnerability in some of their recent matches. Five of their last nine matches in all competitions have produced over 2.5 goals.
Team News and Predicted Line-ups
Nigeria (4-3-3): Chiamaka Nnadozie; Shukurat Oladipo, Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin, Michelle Alozie; Rasheedat Ajibade, Halimatu Ayinde, Jennifer Echeghini; Asisat Oshoala, Esther Okoronkwo, Uchenna Kanu.
Nigeria are likely to make changes to their team, with Kanu set to earn a start after scoring off the bench last time out. Veteran forward Oshoala could also feature while Ajibade should retain her place in midfield.
Zambia (4-1-4-1): Hazel Nali; Margaret Belemu, Mapalo Maluba, Lushomo Mweemba, Racheal Nachula; Rhoda Chileshe; Eneless Phiri, Ireen Lungu, Grace Chanda, Racheal Kundananji; Barbra Banda.
Phiri scored off the bench for Zambia in the win over Egypt and could be handed a start here. Maluba is expected to continue at the back while Banda sh