Nigeria’s Super Falcons delivered another commanding performance at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), defeating Egypt 6-2 to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
The nine-time African champions showcased their attacking quality with an impressive display that saw six goals, multiple penalty decisions, VAR interventions, and an injury concern involving star striker Asisat Oshoala.
Oshoala opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Monday Gift doubled Nigeria’s advantage with a composed finish. Egypt responded through Nadine Ghazi, who converted a penalty to reduce the deficit before halftime.
However, the Super Falcons dominated the second half as substitute Uchenna Kanu scored moments after replacing the injured Oshoala. Christy Ucheibe added another from the penalty spot, captain Rasheedat Ajibade got on the scoresheet, and substitute Joy Omewa completed the emphatic victory. Ghazi scored Egypt’s second goal with a superb long-range strike.
Oshoala Injury Raises Concern
Despite the convincing victory, Nigeria will be sweating over the fitness of Oshoala, who was forced off before halftime after converting the opening penalty.
The striker’s condition has not yet been officially disclosed, but her absence could be a major setback as the Super Falcons prepare for the knockout rounds, where tougher opposition awaits.
Babajide Continues to Shine
Rinsola Babajide once again underlined her growing importance to the team with another outstanding performance.
The winger consistently troubled Egypt’s defence with her pace and creativity, providing the assist for Monday Gift’s goal before setting up Uchenna Kanu shortly after the restart.
Her recent performances have strengthened her claim for a regular starting role as Nigeria targets another continental title.
Egypt Goalkeeper Impresses Despite Heavy Defeat
Although Egypt conceded six goals, goalkeeper Habiba Sabry produced several impressive saves, particularly in the first half, to prevent the scoreline from becoming even more lopsided.
Her performance kept Egypt in the contest for long periods before Nigeria’s relentless attack eventually overwhelmed the North Africans.
VAR and Penalty Decisions Spark Debate
The encounter was also dominated by officiating decisions, with four penalties awarded during the game.
Nigeria converted three spot-kicks, while Egypt’s first goal came after the referee awarded a penalty following a VAR review involving Michelle Alozie and Yassmin Zezo.
The decision drew protests from the Nigerian bench, but the referee upheld the call after reviewing the incident.
Ghazi Stands Out for Egypt
Despite Egypt’s elimination, midfielder Nadine Ghazi emerged as her side’s standout performer.
She converted Egypt’s first penalty before scoring a stunning long-range effort in the second half, delivering an impressive individual display despite her team’s defeat.
Why Zambia Were Eliminated
Away from Nigeria’s victory, Zambia’s exit from the tournament generated widespread discussion after they failed to progress despite winning their final group match.
The outcome was determined by the WAFCON head-to-head tiebreak regulations involving Nigeria, Malawi and Zambia, who finished level on points.
With all three teams tied on goal difference in their head-to-head matches, the next criterion—goals scored in those fixtures—favoured Malawi with four goals, followed by Nigeria with three, while Zambia managed only two.
As a result, Malawi finished top of the mini-league, Nigeria advanced in second place, and Zambia were eliminated.
With two convincing victories, attacking flair and growing confidence, the Super Falcons head into the quarter-finals looking every inch genuine contenders to reclaim the WAFCON title.