'Every country wants to beat Nigeria' - Super Falcons hunt 11th Wafcon title

Rabat, Morocco – The stage is set for a thrilling Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 in Morocco, with Zambia's Copper Queens entering the fray with heightened expectations and a formidable challenge ahead. Drawn into Group C, the Copper Queens face a demanding schedule that includes defending champions Nigeria, neighbouring Malawi, and Egypt. This tournament is not merely about continental glory; it also serves as a critical qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with Africa's top four teams earning automatic berths. The Copper Queens, under the guidance of Swiss coach Nora Häuptle, have demonstrated their intent early in the competition, securing a resounding 6-0 victory over Egypt in their opening Group C encounter, a performance that has undoubtedly boosted their confidence ahead of tougher tests. Zambia's journey to this WAFCON has been marked by a steady ascent in African women's football. After a historic third-place finish in the 2022 edition and a quarter-final exit in 2024, the team has consistently shown improvement and resilience. Their qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, a first for the nation, further solidified their status as a rising power. Key to their success has been the prolific attacking duo of captain Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji, whose partnership has become one of the most feared on the continent. Banda, in particular, showcased her exceptional talent against Egypt, scoring four goals and providing an assist, underlining her pivotal role in the team's offensive strategy. The upcoming clash against Nigeria, scheduled for August 1st, is anticipated to be one of the tournament's highlights. Nigeria, with a record ten WAFCON titles, carries the perennial burden of expectation, and their ambition to secure an eleventh crown is palpable. This encounter will be a significant barometer for the Copper Queens, offering a chance to measure their progress against the continent's most dominant force. Whil