Super Falcons forward Francisca Ordega has revealed that there was never a moment of panic within the Nigeria camp during the team’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) despite being reduced to 10 players.
The 10-time African champions showed remarkable resilience to bounce back from their opening defeat to Malawi, with Asisat Oshoala’s early goal proving enough to secure all three points after Tosin Demehin’s first-half red card.
Speaking after the match, Ordega said the Super Falcons drew confidence from similar situations they had experienced in the past and never doubted their ability to see out the result.
“At no point during the game did we panic, even after we went down to 10 players. We’ve been in situations like this before, so we knew we had the experience to handle it,” Ordega said.
The veteran forward disclosed that the atmosphere inside the dressing room during the half-time break remained calm and focused, despite the difficult circumstances.
“It was a calm dressing room at half-time. As one of the senior players, we encouraged the younger ones to stay composed, remain focused and finish the job. Everyone believed we could win the game,” she added.
Ordega praised the maturity and discipline displayed by the squad, noting that every player understood the importance of sticking to the tactical plan after the dismissal.
The victory has reignited Nigeria’s campaign after the opening setback against Malawi, leaving the Super Falcons in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage.
The defending champions will now face Egypt in their final Group C fixture on Wednesday, knowing that another victory will confirm their place in the quarter-finals as they continue their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
