As the countdown begins to the much-anticipated quarter-final clash between Nigeria and Zambia at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024, both camps have spoken with confidence and calm focus ahead of the showdown.

In separate pre-match press conferences, Nigeria’s Head Coach, Justin Madugu and Zambia’s head Coach Nora Hauptle, along with star forward Barbra Banda, shared insights on their teams’ state of mind and tactical readiness for what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter

Nigeria Camp:

Super Falcons Coach Justin Madugu struck a balanced tone — acknowledging Zambia’s strengths while expressing firm belief in Nigeria’s ability to win.

“We cannot take away the fact that Zambia are a good team,” Madugu told reporter Biola. “But they are also beatable. They are not unbeatable. Anything can happen in the game of football.”

With detailed preparations underway, Madugu assured that the team is well aware of Zambia’s key players and has developed strategies to counter them.

“We know the players, we know their strengths, and we are also having our own plans on how to deal with that.”

He also highlighted the positive mood in the Nigerian camp, hinting that the opposition is just as wary of the Super Falcons.

“The girls are in high spirits. They too (Zambia) are also uncomfortable coming up against us.”

Madugu ended his remarks with a phrase that stood out — a simple yet telling “calm down, calm down” — reflecting a composed mindset and a message of reassurance to both players and fans.

Zambia Camp:

On the other side, Zambia coach Nora Hauptle spoke glowingly about her squad’s preparation and the inspiration drawn from captain Barbra Banda, who continues to be a key figure on and off the pitch.

“For me, Barbra is a top athlete but also a top human,” Hauptle said. “She is a role model with a top attitude. Always professional. It’s an honor to work with her.”

She also noted that the team has had valuable time to reset and sharpen ahead of the knockout phase.

“We are happy to have these number of days to physically and mentally prepare for the knockout stage. We are having a good session in Casablanca. We’re excited and prepared for the match against Nigeria.”

Captain Barbra Banda reinforced her coach’s confidence, speaking about the team’s collective spirit and readiness.

“We are good as a team.”

A Familiar Rivalry

This quarter-final match also carries a bit of recent history. At the last edition of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in 2022, Zambia defeated Nigeria 1-0 in the third-place playoff, clinching the bronze medal and making a major statement on the continental stage.

That result still lingers in memory — and adds an extra layer of motivation for Nigeria, while Zambia will be aiming to prove it was no fluke. With both sides eyeing a spot in the semi-finals, all signs point to a tightly contested and emotionally charged encounter.

Quarter-Final Showdown Set

With two teams full of talent, belief, and ambition, the stage is set for a captivating quarter-final clash. Nigeria will lean on their continental experience, while Zambia, hungry for a statement victory, look to break new ground at WAFCON 2024.

Both camps sound confident, focused, and fully aware of the stakes — a place in the semi-finals, and perhaps a step closer to continental glory.