Nigeria reignited their CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title defence with a determined 1-0 victory over Zambia on Saturday, overcoming a second-half onslaught after playing much of the match with 10 players.

A first-half goal from Asisat Oshoala proved decisive at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, as the Super Falcons bounced back from their opening defeat to Malawi to secure a crucial three points in Group C.

The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year put Nigeria ahead in the eighth minute, bursting past two defenders before her initial effort was blocked by Zambia goalkeeper Hazel Nali. The rebound deflected off Oshoala and rolled into the net.

Nigeria’s task became significantly tougher five minutes before the break when defender Oluwatosin Demehin was shown a straight red card for bringing down Zambia captain Barbra Banda.

Reduced to 10 players, the defending champions adopted a disciplined defensive approach after the restart, frustrating Zambia despite sustained pressure from the Copper Queens.

Coach Justine Madugu reshuffled his side with the introductions of Sikiratu Isah, Chinwendu Ihezuo, Halimatu Ayinde and Esther Okoronkwo to reinforce the defence and preserve the slender advantage.

Zambia, buoyed by their emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt in their opening match, dominated possession and made several attacking substitutions but failed to break down Nigeria’s resolute backline.

The result keeps the Super Falcons firmly in contention for a place in the quarter-finals after their shock 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in the opening round.

Earlier on Saturday, Malawi maintained their perfect start with a 3-1 win over Egypt. Rose Kadzere and Faith Chinzimu gave the Scorchers a two-goal lead before Temwa Chawinga added a third after the break, despite Malawi finishing the game with 10 players following Rose Alufandika’s dismissal. Egypt pulled one back through Eman Kassem but remained rooted to the bottom of the group.

After two rounds of matches, Malawi lead Group C with six points, while Nigeria and Zambia have three points each. Egypt are yet to register a point.

Nigeria will face Egypt in their final group match on Wednesday, knowing victory could secure a place in the knockout stage, while Malawi and Zambia meet in another decisive Group C encounter.

The victory was built more on resilience than flair, but for the 10-time African champions, it was a vital response that keeps their quest for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title alive.