Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie says the team learned important lessons from their 3-2 loss to Malawi. This helped them secure a tough 1-0 win over Zambia on Saturday, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.
Alozie was named Player of the Match in this key victory. She played strongly even as the Falcons had to continue with just 10 players after the 40th minute.
Defender Tosin Demehin received a straight red card. But Asisat Oshoala’s goal in the eighth minute was enough for the 10-woman Falcons to keep their title defense alive against Zambia, who were looking for their second win in the tournament.
"We knew Zambia is a really tough team. They are super fast, physical and very technical. We learned the lesson after playing against Malawi, so we knew we needed to drop the line," Alozie said while accepting her award.
"It was a hell of a game. Tosin played her heart out. It was unfortunate that she was shown a red card, but I’m glad we were able to come together with a player down and get the win."
This victory puts Nigeria at three points from two matches. They are still in the race for the quarter-finals.
Earlier, Malawi beat Egypt 3-1 to take the top spot in Group C with six points. Zambia is in second place with three points, while Nigeria sits in third place with three points. Egypt is at the bottom without any points.
The current standings mean Nigeria has more work to do. But this win has opened a path for them to get back into the tournament.
Nigeria needs to beat Egypt convincingly on Wednesday. They also hope that the result from the game between Malawi and Zambia goes in their favor.
The Super Falcons are eager to continue their quest for an 11th continental title and secure a spot at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.
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