Falcons aim for WAFCON quarter-finals against Egypt

After a rough start to their title defence, Nigeria, the 10-time champions, are looking to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. They will face Egypt today in their final Group C match in Rabat, according to The PUNCH.

Nigeria faced a surprising 3-2 loss to Malawi in their first game. They bounced back with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia to keep their hopes alive.

A win today will give Nigeria six points. Their chance to reach the last eight will depend on the outcome of the other match between Malawi and Zambia.

Egypt had a tough opening day, losing 6-0 to Zambia. They also fell 3-1 to Malawi. Still, the Falcons know they cannot underestimate the Egyptians.

Coach Justine Madugu has to find replacements for defender Tosin Demehin and midfielder Jennifer Echegini. Both are out due to disciplinary issues.

Demehin was sent off against Zambia for stopping Barbra Banda, who was on a clear run to goal. Echegini got two yellow cards in the matches against Malawi and Zambia.

Madugu changed his starting line-up against Zambia on Saturday, and now he needs to make more changes. Christy Ucheibe, who played well at centre-back after Demehin’s red card, is expected to start alongside Osinachi Ohale. Toni Payne is likely to join captain Rasheedat Ajibade and possibly Halimatu Ayinde in midfield.

Ajibade scored a penalty, and Uchenna Kanu added a goal in added time against Malawi. Coach Madugu might start Kanu with Oshoala, who scored against Zambia to secure the win.

Malawi is currently leading the group with six points, while Nigeria and Zambia each have three points. If Zambia beats Malawi and Nigeria wins against Egypt, all three teams will have six points.

If the three teams end up with six points, the Confederation of African Football will follow its rules to decide which two teams move on to the quarter-finals.

These scenarios mean head-to-head results, goal difference, and other criteria may be key in determining the teams if they finish with the same points. The final standings will follow the rules set by CAF.