Defending champions Nigeria head into their final Group C match against Egypt knowing that victory would all but secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). But while the Super Falcons remain favourites on paper, recent results suggest they cannot afford any complacency.
Current Form
Nigeria’s title defence got off to a nightmare start with a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi, one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history. However, Justin Madugu’s side responded in impressive fashion by defeating Zambia 1-0, thanks to an early strike from six-time African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala.
That victory restored confidence in the Nigerian camp and put qualification back in the Super Falcons’ hands heading into the final group fixture.
Egypt, on the other hand, have endured a disappointing tournament. The Pharaohs have lost both of their opening matches, leaving them rooted to the bottom of Group C without a point. They have struggled defensively while also finding goals difficult to come by against stronger opposition.
Head-to-Head Advantage
History strongly favours Nigeria.
The Super Falcons have dominated meetings with Egypt over the years, winning the vast majority of their encounters in Women’s AFCON qualifiers and tournament matches. Nigeria have consistently outclassed the North Africans with superior quality, experience and squad depth.
Egypt have never established themselves among Africa’s elite women’s teams, while Nigeria remain the continent’s most successful nation with a record 10 WAFCON titles.
Nigeria’s Key Strengths
The Super Falcons still possess one of the strongest squads in Africa.
Captain Rasheedat Ajibade continues to lead by example with her creativity and leadership, while Asisat Oshoala remains Nigeria’s biggest attacking threat despite her vast experience.
Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, Africa’s reigning Goalkeeper of the Year, provides security at the back, while the midfield has shown greater balance following the victory over Zambia.
Coach Justin Madugu has also blended youth with experience, giving Nigeria greater energy and depth throughout the squad.
Egypt’s Challenge
Egypt will be playing for pride after losing their opening two matches.
Although they possess a number of technically gifted players, they have struggled against physically stronger and tactically disciplined opponents. Defensive lapses and an inability to convert chances have been recurring problems throughout the tournament.
Their biggest motivation will be to finish the competition on a positive note by claiming a famous scalp against the defending champions.
Key Battles
- Asisat Oshoala vs Egypt’s central defence – Nigeria’s experienced striker will look to exploit any defensive mistakes.
- Rasheedat Ajibade vs Egypt’s full-backs – Her pace and dribbling could create numerous scoring opportunities.
- Nigeria’s midfield control – Winning possession early and dictating the tempo will be crucial to preventing Egypt from settling into the game.
Possible Outcome
On current form, Nigeria enter the match as clear favourites.
While the Super Falcons were surprisingly beaten by Malawi, their disciplined performance against Zambia demonstrated they remain capable of responding under pressure. Egypt’s struggles at both ends of the pitch suggest they may find it difficult to contain Nigeria’s attacking quality for 90 minutes.
However, Nigeria will need to improve their defensive concentration after conceding three goals against Malawi, as any lapse could give Egypt an opportunity.
Prediction
Nigeria 2-0 Egypt
The Super Falcons should have enough quality, experience and motivation to secure all three points and book their place in the quarter-finals. If Oshoala, Ajibade and Chiamaka Nnadozie perform to their usual standards, Nigeria are expected to finish the group stage on a high and continue their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
