Nigeria’s Super Falcons produced a determined performance to defeat Zambia’s Copper Queens 1-0 in their WAFCON group-stage match in Rabat on Saturday night.
Asisat Oshoala scored the winning goal in the eighth minute, finishing calmly inside the box after being picked out by a good pass as Nigeria made a bright start to the game.
The Super Falcons were forced to play with 10 players for more than 50 minutes after defender Tosin Demehin was sent off in the 40th minute.
Demehin had earlier been booked for a challenge on Zambia forward Barbra Banda, but the yellow card was overturned after a VAR review found an offside in the build-up. A second challenge between the two players later saw Demehin receive another booking and a red card.
Nigeria responded with a strong defensive display after the break. Coach Justin Madugu brought on Shukurat Oladipo for Rofiat Imuran as the Super Falcons reorganised to protect their lead.
Zambia dominated possession and created pressure, but Chiamaka Nnadozie and the Nigerian defence remained composed. Nigeria also threatened on the counter through Uchenna Kanu and substitute Esther Okoronkwo.
The Super Falcons held on for a valuable three points and another win over Zambia in the competition.
Nigeria will round off their group campaign against Egypt on Wednesday, August 5, with Egypt still looking for their first points after two defeats.
