Nigeria revived their hopes of reaching the 2027 Women's World Cup with a nervy 1-0 win over Zambia at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, despite having a player sent off late in the first half.
Asisat Oshoala scored the only goal in the eighth minute, when the ball bobbled in off her right thigh after her initial attempt was saved by Zambia goalkeeper Hazel Nali. The six-time African women's player of the year has been instrumental in Nigeria's campaign, and this win keeps their World Cup hopes alive.
Nigeria were on the brink of an early exit after falling to a shock 3-2 defeat against debutants Malawi in their opener on Tuesday. However, a good start to the match against Zambia, followed by Oshoala's goal, set the tone for the rest of the match.
The 10-time Wafcon winners and defending champions had Oluwatosin Demehin sent off five minutes before the break at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat following a video assistant referee review. Demehin had hauled down Zambia striker Barbra Banda, and referee Josphine Wanjiku upgraded her initial yellow card after deciding Demehin was the last defender.
Zambia failed to make their numerical advantage pay, although Racheal Kundananji threatened when her long-range free-kick was tipped behind by Nigeria keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Banda, once Africa's most expensive female player, was subdued after the break and Nigeria survived a late scare when Grace Chanda volleyed high over the bar deep in stoppage time.
The Super Falcons have been ever-presents at the Women's World Cup, reaching the quarter-finals in 1999 and progressing to the last 16 at the past two editions. They are once again indebted to Oshoala, who has been a key player in their campaign.
Nigeria move level with Zambia on three points in Group C with both sides trailing surprise package Malawi, who have maximum points after beating Egypt 3-1 earlier on Saturday. The Super Falcons face Egypt and Zambia take on Malawi in the final round of group matches on Wednesday.
The stakes are high for Nigeria, who need to continue their winning form to book a spot in the Women's World Cup. With a game to spare, Nigeria will be looking to secure their place in the tournament.
Source: Yahoo Sports