WAFCON 2022: Zambian sucker punch ends Super Falcons’ 14-year run

Nigeria have dominated the African championship since inception, but it seems the end of their reign is nigh 

The Super Falcons of Nigeria failed to finish in the top three of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after an unprecedented 1-0 loss to Zambia in the third-place match.

Nigeria lost to Morocco on penalties in a dramatic semifinal tie. However, the Super Falcons were outstanding in the game, as they fought like warriors on the night despite being two women down.

The loss set up a date with the Zambians who lost narrowly to South Africa. With the bronze medal in sight, Nigeria were the overwhelming favorite against the Copper queens even with their depleted squad.

However, the opposite was the case on the night, as a shot from Zambian midfielder Katongo struck the upright and recrocheted off Chiamaka Nnadozie’s to put Zambia ahead.

The Super Falcons increased their tempo after conceding, but they failed to take their chances.

Gift Monday who got her first start was wasteful on the night, missing chance upon chance.

Monday also had two clear-cut chances but she fluffed her lines.

The Super Falcons piled pressure on Zambia, but they just lacked the cutting edge on the night.

The Cooper Falcons saw out the game to ensure they escaped with the victory

The loss means that for the first time since 2012, the Super Falcons would return home without any medal. It was also the first time that Zambia would defeat Nigeria in the WAFCON.