Blockbuster Quarter-Final: Nigeria’s Super Falcons Face Copper Queens of Zambia Today

Pressure mounts as Nigeria’s cohesive structure meets Zambia’s electrifying offense in a high-stakes showdown at the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Today’s quarter-final will be a litmus test for both teams’ title ambitions, as nine-time champions Nigeria face 2022 bronze medalists Zambia in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

The Super Falcons will lock horns with the Copper Queens today, Friday, July 18, 2025, at 5:00 PM WAT (GMT+1). The match will take place at Stade Larbi Zaouli in Casablanca, adding extra drama to an already intense WAFCON quarter-final lineup.

Nigeria qualified unbeaten and topped Group B with 7 points, after dominant wins over Tunisia (3–0) and Botswana (1–0), and a goalless draw with Algeria. On the other hand, Zambia finished second in Group A—also with 7 points—on goal difference. They played out a 2–2 draw with Morocco, edged Senegal 3–2 and secured a 1–0 victory over DR Congo.

Both coaches expressed confidence ahead of the clash:

“We respect Zambia’s threat, but they’re not unbeatable. Our first job is to keep our defensive record intact and then convert our chances,”
— Justin Madugu, Nigeria Head Coach

“We are ready to make history. If we stay compact and take our moments, we can reach the semi-finals,”
— Bruce Mwape, Zambia Head Coach

The winner of this epic battle will face either cup holders South Africa or the exciting Senegalese in the semi-final, as the road to continental glory tightens.