The Copper Queens have shifted attention to a decisive Group C match against Malawi at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after suffering a 1-0 loss to defending champions Nigeria on Saturday night.
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‎Zambia’s chances of advancing to the quarterfinals were complicated by the defeat at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.

‎Asisat Oshoala’s 8th minute goal proved to be the difference as Nigeria bounced back from their opening match loss to debutants Malawi.
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‎Despite the result, Zambia coach Nora Häuptle said her side controlled large spells of the game and created enough chances to get a result.
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‎“It was in our hands and we did not take the chance. It was all there that we could beat Nigeria tonight,” Häuptle said.
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‎The Swiss coach said the focus has now moved to Wednesday’s final Group C fixture against Malawi.

‎“We now need to gain points and we need to beat Malawi to stay in the tournament,” she said.
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‎Striker Racheal Kundananji has urged Zambians to keep faith in the team.

‎“They shouldn’t give up on us so easily. We still have another game and we are going to do our best,” Kundananji said.
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‎Defender Margaret Belemu also called for improvement at both ends of the pitch ahead of the Malawi clash.
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‎Zambia kicked off the tournament with a 6-0 win over Egypt but now sit third in Group C on 3 points.

Malawi have already qualified after beating Egypt 3-1, while Nigeria also have 3 points.
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‎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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