Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala has revealed that Nigeria never considered abandoning its attacking approach despite being reduced to 10 players during the team’s crucial 1-0 victory over Zambia at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Oshoala’s eighth-minute strike proved to be the match-winner as the 10-time African champions bounced back from their opening defeat to Malawi with a spirited display that revived their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
Reflecting on the hard-fought victory, the six-time CAF African Women’s Player of the Year praised the determination and selflessness shown by every member of the squad.
“We showed resilience and determination throughout the game. Even after the red card, everyone was ready to fight for one another because we knew how important the result was,” Oshoala said.
The experienced striker disclosed that the Super Falcons never changed their mindset after Tosin Demehin’s dismissal, insisting the players remained committed to creating scoring opportunities rather than merely protecting their lead.
“We never thought about sitting back for the rest of the game. Everyone embraced the extra workload, but we still wanted to score more goals whenever we had the chance instead of just defending,” she added.
Oshoala credited the team’s unity and winning mentality for helping Nigeria withstand sustained pressure from the Copper Queens while remaining dangerous on the counterattack.
The victory lifted the Super Falcons back into contention for a place in the quarter-finals after the disappointing opening-day loss to Malawi and reaffirmed their determination to defend the continental title.
Nigeria will now conclude its Group C campaign against Egypt on Wednesday, with victory guaranteeing the defending champions a place in the knockout stage as they continue their pursuit of a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
