Nigeria and Zambia set for crucial Women’s Africa Cup of Nations clash as starting XIs are named

Nigeria and Zambia have confirmed their starting line-ups for a decisive Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 meeting, with both sides aiming to strengthen their position after contrasting results in their opening matches.

The game between the Super Falcons and the Copper Queens is scheduled to begin at 20:00.

Zambia made an emphatic start to the competition, defeating Egypt 6-0 in their first match. Nigeria, however, suffered a 3-2 defeat by Malawi, leaving the 10-time African champions under pressure before their second fixture.

The match therefore carries added significance for both teams. Zambia will look to build on their impressive opening victory, while Nigeria must respond after being beaten by Malawi.

Nigeria have selected Chiamaka Nnadozie in goal, with Faith Ohale, Asisat Oshoala, Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini, Uchenna Kanu, Deborah Abiodun, Oluwatosin Demehin, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Rofiat Imuran and Usero Alozie completing the starting XI.

The Super Falcons’ line-up includes experienced players alongside younger members of the squad as they seek to recover from their narrow defeat. Ajibade will lead the team as captain, while Nnadozie starts between the posts.

Zambia will begin with goalkeeper Nali. Their outfield starters are Mweemba, Chileshe, Belemu, Chanda, captain Barbra Banda, Lungu, Racheal Kundananji, Nachula, Maluba and Chilufya.

Banda will again wear the captain’s armband for the Copper Queens, who head into the fixture with confidence after scoring six goals against Egypt without conceding.

The two teams arrive at the match in very different circumstances. Zambia’s opening result provided a strong early statement, while Nigeria’s loss means they cannot afford another setback if they are to improve their position in the group.

Nigeria are among Africa’s most successful women’s national teams, having won the continental title 10 times. Zambia also enter the tournament after a commanding first performance, making the encounter an important test of whether Nigeria can regain momentum or whether the Copper Queens can maintain theirs.

With the starting line-ups now confirmed, attention turns to the 20:00 kick-off and a contest between a Nigeria side seeking a response and a Zambia team hoping to follow their 6-0 success with another positive result.