Nigeria look to midfield reshuffle as Zambia rely on familiar core

Nigeria are expected to make adjustments in midfield while keeping faith with the same defensive line for their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 meeting with Zambia tonight.

The Super Falcons go into the match under pressure after conceding three goals against Malawi, although head coach Justin Madugu is not expected to make major changes at the back. Instead, he could strengthen the midfield in an attempt to disrupt Zambia’s passing and limit their ability to build attacks.

Madugu’s probable Nigeria line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Chiamaka Nnadozie

Defenders: Michelle Alozie, Shukurat Oladipo, Osinachi Ohale, Oluwatosin Demehin

Midfielders: Jennifer Echegini, Deborah Abiodun, Rasheedat Ajibade

Forwards: Esther Okoronkwo, Uchenna Kanu, Toni Babajide

The defensive unit is set to remain unchanged despite the three goals conceded in the previous match. Nigeria’s approach is expected to focus on protecting the defence through an extra density in midfield, with Jennifer Echegini, Deborah Abiodun and Rasheedat Ajibade listed as the likely central options.

At the other end, Zambia arrive with confidence after a convincing performance against Egypt. Coach Nora Hauptle is expected to retain the core of the side that produced that result, with captain and star forward Barbra Banda again set to lead the Copper Queens.

Zambia’s probable line-up is:

Goalkeeper: Hazel Nali

Defenders: Margaret Belemu, Agness Mweemba, Martha Tembo or Maluba, Rachel Nachula

Midfielders: Grace Chanda, Hellen Chileshe, Ireen Lungu

Forwards: Prisca Chilufya, Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji

Banda is the focal point of Zambia’s attacking line, supported by Prisca Chilufya and Racheal Kundananji. Hauptle is expected to maintain the same structure that helped Zambia dominate Egypt, rather than making widespread changes for the contest with Nigeria.

The match therefore brings together two contrasting moods: Nigeria’s need to respond after a difficult defensive display and Zambia’s belief following their commanding result. The Super Falcons are expected to rely on greater protection in midfield, while the Copper Queens will look to preserve the attacking structure built around Banda.

With both managers largely committed to their established defensive and attacking combinations, the main question concerns whether Nigeria’s midfield changes can interrupt Zambia’s passing game. For Zambia, the emphasis will be on carrying the confidence of their performance against Egypt into a meeting with a Nigeria side seeking a more secure display.