Nigeria’s Super Falcons face a must-win showdown against Egypt in their final Group C match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with victory guaranteeing a place in the quarter-finals.

According to Channels Television, the defending champions recovered from a shock 3-2 opening defeat to Malawi by edging Zambia 1-0 thanks to an early goal from Asisat Oshoala. The result revived Nigeria’s hopes, but anything less than three points against Egypt could leave qualification dependent on other results.

Head coach Justin Madugu will have to cope without suspended defender Tosin Demehin, who was sent off against Zambia, and midfielder Jennifer Echegini, who misses the match after accumulating two yellow cards.

Egypt enter the fixture already eliminated after heavy defeats to Zambia and Malawi. The Cleopatras have conceded nine goals in two matches and will be aiming to end their campaign on a positive note despite having no chance of progressing.

Nigeria will once again rely on experienced stars including Asisat Oshoala, captain Rasheedat Ajibade, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and full-back Michelle Alozie to deliver under pressure. Oshoala’s winning goal against Zambia and Ajibade’s leadership have been crucial to the Falcons’ revival.

For Egypt, Sarah Essam, Habiba Essam and defender Noura Khaled are expected to lead the challenge as the North Africans seek to upset the nine-time African champions.

Nigeria have historically dominated Egypt in women’s football and remain unbeaten against the Cleopatras at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, making the Super Falcons favourites despite the pressure surrounding the contest.

The Group C clash takes place on Wednesday, August 5, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, with kick-off scheduled for 9:00 pm Nigerian time.