By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Nigeria’s Super Falcons produced a stunning attacking display to defeat Egypt 6-2 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after edging through Group C on superior goal difference.

The emphatic victory in Rabat, coupled with Zambia’s 2-1 win over Malawi, saw Nigeria finish second in the group behind Zambia. All three teams ended the group stage with six points, but Zambia topped the standings on goal difference, with the Falcons also advancing ahead of third-placed Malawi.

Nigeria’s qualification completed a remarkable turnaround after suffering a shock 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening match. The 10-time African champions bounced back with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia before producing their most convincing performance of the tournament against Egypt.

Nigeria took the lead through Asisat Oshoala’s 21st-minute penalty and doubled their advantage through Gift Monday before Egypt reduced the deficit from the penalty spot deep into first-half stoppage time.

The Super Falcons took complete control after the break. Uchenna Kanu struck immediately after the restart before Christy Ucheibe converted another penalty to make it 4-1. Although Egypt scored again through a second penalty by Nadine Ghazi, captain Rasheedat Ajibade added Nigeria’s fifth from the spot before Joy Omewa completed the rout deep into stoppage time.

Nigeria dominated the contest, enjoying 59 per cent possession, registering 25 shots to Egypt’s five and creating six big chances in a commanding performance that underlined their title ambitions.

The result secured the Falcons’ place in the last eight despite their opening-day setback, keeping alive their quest for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.