Shaibu Rallies Super Falcons Ahead of Crucial Zambia Clash at WAFCON

Posted : 31 July 2026

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has assured the Super Falcons of the continued support of Nigerians despite their disappointing start to the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Nigeria suffered a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C match. The result left the defending champions under pressure ahead of their second group fixture against Zambia. Temwa Chawinga scored twice for Malawi, while her sister Tabitha also found the net in a famous victory. Nigeria's goals came from captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Grace Kanu.

Reacting to the setback, Shaibu encouraged the players to put the defeat behind them and concentrate on the remaining matches. He described the result as only a temporary setback and urged the squad to respond with determination.

According to him, football is full of unexpected moments and every successful team faces difficult periods. He stressed that great champions are remembered for how they recover from adversity rather than the defeats they suffer.

"The task ahead is bigger than yesterday's defeat," Shaibu said as he called on the players and technical crew to remain united, disciplined and fully committed to achieving their objectives.

The former Edo State deputy governor also expressed confidence in the quality and experience within the Super Falcons squad. He believes the team has the mentality required to bounce back and remain competitive in the race for another continental title.

Nigeria now face group leaders Zambia in a crucial Group C encounter. The Super Falcons need a victory to revive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage after the opening-day loss. Zambia head into the match with confidence after an emphatic 6-0 win over Egypt in their first fixture.

The stakes are particularly high because the 2026 WAFCON also serves as the African qualification tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. The four semi-finalists will secure automatic qualification, making every remaining group match vital for Nigeria's ambitions.

The Super Falcons, Africa's most successful women's national team, are chasing a record-extending 11th WAFCON title. However, another defeat would leave their title defence hanging by a thread and significantly reduce their chances of progressing to the knockout rounds and securing a place at next year's World Cup.

Shaibu Rallies Super Falcons Ahead of Crucial Zambia Clash at WAFCON

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics