WAFCON24 Copper Queens Ready for Nigeria: Zambia’s Copper Queens are set for their biggest test yet as they face Nigeria’s Super Falcons in the quarterfinals of the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The match kicks off at 18:00 CAT on Friday at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca and will be broadcast live on ZNBC TV, Diamond TV, and SuperSport.
On Thursday evening, Zambia held their final training session at the Annexe Mohammed V in Casablanca. Spirits were high and focus razor-sharp as the team concluded preparations for a clash that has all the ingredients of a WAFCON classic.
Both Teams Unbeaten, One Must Fall
Both Zambia and Nigeria enter this quarterfinal unbeaten, having each collected seven points from two wins and a draw in their respective groups. Zambia’s campaign has been defined by attacking prowess, with captain Barbra Banda and striker Racheal Kundananji scoring in every group stage match.
Nigeria, on the other hand, have yet to concede a single goal in the tournament. With a solid backline marshalled by Ashleigh Plumptre and tournament pedigree behind them, the Super Falcons bring experience and tactical discipline to the field.
A Clash of Histories: Nigeria is the most successful nation in WAFCON history, boasting nine titles. However, the narrative is shifting. In the 2022 edition, Zambia defeated Nigeria for the first time at this level, securing a 1-0 win that signaled the rise of a new force in African women’s football.
This match is more than a quarterfinal. It is a statement game for Zambia. A victory would confirm their transformation from underdogs to continental contenders.
Match Officials and VAR Team
The match will be officiated by Moroccan referee Bouchra Karboubi, with Ihsane Ennauajeli as her assistant. Tunisia’s Dorsaf Ganouati will serve as the fourth official. VAR duties have been assigned to Algeria’s Lahlou Benbraham, assisted by Moroccan official Fatiha Jermoumi.
Coaches Speak: Nigeria’s assistant coach Justin Madugu has acknowledged Zambia’s growth, warning against underestimating a team that has “come of age.” Zambia’s head coach Nora Häuptle has kept her squad focused, stating that the Copper Queens are prepared to go the distance, even if it means deciding the match on penalties.
Zedsoccer’s Take
This is a true clash of styles. Nigeria brings a legacy of control and structure. Zambia responds with speed, creativity, and fearless ambition. The Copper Queens have shown they are not here to make up the numbers—they are here to challenge the order.
As the clock counts down to kickoff, one thing is certain: this is a match that will define Zambia’s campaign and could rewrite the legacy of women’s football in the country.
Stay tuned for post-match updates and analysis, right here on Zedsoccer.
