We’ll come back against Zambia – Okoronkwo

RABAT, MOROCCO – The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Group C is heating up, with Nigeria's Super Falcons facing a critical test against Zambia's Copper Queens. Following a stunning 3-2 upset by tournament debutants Malawi in their opening fixture, Nigerian forward Esther Okoronkwo has publicly pledged that the nine-time champions will rebound with a vastly improved showing in their upcoming clash against Zambia. This declaration underscores the immense pressure on the Super Falcons to regain their footing in the competition, especially against a Zambian side that has already demonstrated formidable prowess. The Copper Queens, fresh from a resounding 6-0 triumph over Egypt where captain Barbra Banda netted four goals, are riding a wave of confidence. Their dominant performance has positioned them as strong contenders in Group C, and they will be eager to maintain their winning momentum against the continental giants. The match, scheduled as Nigeria's second group fixture, is now a must-win for the Super Falcons to keep their title defence hopes alive and avoid an early exit from the tournament, which is being hosted in Morocco from July 26 to August 16, 2026. The historical rivalry between these two nations adds another layer of intrigue to the encounter. While Nigeria has generally held the upper hand in past meetings, including a 5-0 victory over Zambia in the 2025 WAFCON quarter-finals, the Copper Queens have shown significant growth in recent years, culminating in their participation in the FIFA Women's World Cup. Zambia's current form, coupled with Nigeria's shaky start, sets the stage for a captivating contest where the Super Falcons' resilience will be severely tested. The outcome could significantly impact the group standings and the psychological landscape of the tournament. Coach Bruce Mwape's Zambian squad will undoubtedly aim to exploit any lingering vulnerabilities from Nigeria's opening loss, particularly given the Super Falcons' defensiv