Chiamaka Nnadozie Warns Of Tough Zambia Test As Super Falcons Chase WAFCON 2026 Glory

Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has described Nigeria’s Group C at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as highly competitive, warning that a rematch with Zambia will be far from straightforward as the defending champions push for another continental title.

Speaking in an interview with Super Falcons Show, Nnadozie acknowledged the quality of the Zambian side and expects a stronger challenge than in their previous meeting.

“Having Zambia in our group for the 2026 WAFCON is not going to be an easy one,” she said. “The last time we faced them at the WAFCON, we won, but it was not an easy win… I am sure they will want to come back and fight. Zambia is indeed a great nation.”

The Paris FC shot stopper praised the depth and quality within the Nigerian squad, insisting the Super Falcons are well-equipped to compete at the highest level.

“They have a very good team with quality players… But we also have good players in our team. We are very young, talented, vibrant, sharp and ready to fight,” she added.

On Nigeria’s chances of defending their title, Nnadozie stressed the need for discipline, focus and adherence to the team’s tactical plan.

“It is not going to be easy to retain the trophy, but there are possibilities… No nation would want to sit back and watch us grab the trophy again,” she said. “We will go there, stay focused, train hard, work hard, stay disciplined and keep believing in mission ten.”

Nnadozie, recently crowned Africa’s Best Goalkeeper for the third consecutive year, credited her teammates and coaches for her success.

“Being named the African best goalkeeper for the third time in a row means a lot to me… I am nothing without my teammates and my coaches,” she noted.

With WAFCON 2026 doubling as qualifiers for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the 23-year-old admitted the stakes are higher than ever.

“This edition is going to be tougher and harder than the last one… We are thinking about now, about the next match and about tomorrow,” she said.

On handling pressure in key moments, Nnadozie revealed that calmness has become one of her biggest strengths.

“When others are panicking, I stay calm, and the calmer I am, the clearer I see and think, the faster I play, and the better my reflexes are,” she explained.