Defending champions Nigeria will battle Egypt in a crucial Group C encounter at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Wednesday, knowing victory could secure a place in the quarter-finals.
The Super Falcons endured a disappointing start to their title defence after suffering a shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi but revived their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia.
A win over Egypt would take Nigeria to six points, although their qualification will also depend on the outcome of the other Group C fixture between leaders Malawi and Zambia.
Despite Egypt losing their opening two matches — a 6-0 defeat to Zambia and a 3-1 loss to Malawi — the nine-time African champions are taking nothing for granted ahead of the decisive encounter.
Head coach Justine Madugu will be forced into changes after defender Tosin Demehin and midfielder Jennifer Echegini were ruled out through suspension.
Demehin received a red card during Nigeria’s victory over Zambia after bringing down Barbra Banda, while Echegini accumulated two yellow cards in the team’s opening two matches.
Christy Ucheibe, who impressed after replacing Demehin in central defence against Zambia, is expected to partner experienced defender Osinachi Ohale at the heart of the defence.
In midfield, Toni Payne is tipped to feature alongside captain Rasheedat Ajibade, with Halimatu Ayinde also in contention for a starting place.
Madugu is also expected to retain striker Asisat Oshoala after she scored the decisive goal against Zambia, while Uchenna Kanu, who found the net against Malawi, could again partner the former African Player of the Year in attack.
Malawi currently top Group C with six points, while Nigeria and Zambia have three points each. Should Nigeria defeat Egypt and Zambia overcome Malawi, all three sides would finish the group stage on six points.
In that scenario, the Confederation of African Football’s tiebreaking rules, including head-to-head results, goal difference and other competition regulations, will determine which two teams progress to the quarter-finals.
The Super Falcons will therefore not only be aiming for victory but also hoping results elsewhere favour their bid to keep alive hopes of winning a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.
