The Copper Queens on Saturday night face defending champions Nigeria in their second Group C match of the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. Kick off is at 22h00.

Zambia tackle Nigeria four days after thumping Egypt 6-0 in their opening Group C match. On the same night, the Super Falcons lost 3-2 to debutants Malawi.

Zambia top Group C with three points and a superior goal difference, while Malawi is second also on three points. Nigeria and Egypt are yet to open their accounts.

Victory over Nigeria will see Zambia advance to the quarterfinals with a game to spare.

Zambia coach Nora Häuptle said she is expecting Nigeria to be tough.

“Basically, we have a good mood in camp. Our opening game went well but we also know that the game against Nigeria will be completely different, so we keep our feet on the ground. We need to adjust against Nigeria. We are good to go tomorrow,” Häuptle told a pre-match media conference.

She said Zambia remains focused ahead of the match.

“We know that Nigeria needs to win this game or else they will be out. We are aware of Nigeria’s strength. We are fully prepared and expect Nigeria to come with their full stamina. We are focused on ourselves, we have a clear plan, and we discussed today how to execute our plan. My team Zambia never plays for a draw; our nature is to win. We can also surprise Nigeria. I have a lot of confidence in my team that we bring our performance on point. Every game is a challenge,” Häuptle said.

Nigeria coach Justin Madugu branded the game against Zambia as a must win for the Falcons.

“We are aware that Zambia’s confidence will be boosted by their victory over Egypt. We will also not want to approach the game in the manner that we will not be defeated. We know what is at stake, it is a must win game,” Madugu said.

Zambia forward Rachael Kundananji said the Copper Queens are itching to face Nigeria.

“The morale in camp is high and the team is ready. We understand that it is not an easy task ahead. It won’t be an easy game. We are looking forward to the game, and we want to do our best. The team is fully prepared for the game. Winning this match will be good for the team and the entire nation,” Kundananji said.

The top four semi-finalists at WAFCON will earn automatic qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

The Copper Queens are aiming to better their 2022 WAFCON bronze medal achievement won under the late coach Bruce Mwape.

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