Falcons ready to die on pitch – Ajibade

### Super Falcons' 'Die on the Pitch' Mentality Highlights Fierce WAFCON Rivalry with Zambia **Rabat, Morocco** – The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) has been marked by intense competition and high stakes, a sentiment perfectly encapsulated by Nigerian Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade. Following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia's Copper Queens, Ajibade revealed the Nigerian squad's steely determination, stating they were prepared to "die on the pitch" rather than suffer consecutive defeats in the tournament. This declaration underscores the fierce rivalry between two of Africa's top women's footballing nations and the immense pressure surrounding their Group C encounter. The match, which saw Nigeria clinch three vital points, was a testament to the Super Falcons' resilience, especially after an unexpected 3-2 loss to Malawi in their opening fixture. Zambia, known for their attacking prowess and led by star captain Barbra Banda, had previously made a strong statement with a dominant 6-0 win against Egypt. This set the stage for a highly anticipated clash where both teams understood the critical importance of a win for their WAFCON aspirations. The Super Falcons' ability to overcome a dangerous Zambian side, even while playing with ten players for a significant portion of the game due to a red card, showcased their tactical discipline and unwavering spirit. For Zambia, the defeat to Nigeria marked a significant setback, ending an impressive eight-match unbeaten run in the WAFCON group stage. The Copper Queens, a team that has steadily risen in prominence, are seeking to advance beyond the group stage for the third consecutive tournament, having finished third in 2022 and reaching the quarter-finals in the last edition. Their national identity is deeply intertwined with their nickname, 'Copper Queens,' reflecting Zambia's rich copper mining heritage, a symbol of national pride and economic significance. This cultural connection fuels thei