Nigeria secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations with an emphatic 6-2 win over Egypt on Wednesday night, overcoming two Egyptian goals and finishing strongly to underline their status as one of the tournament favourites.
The result means the nine-time African champions continue their quest for another continental title, while Egypt exit the competition after failing to contain Nigeria's relentless attack.
According to the official match statistics shown after the final whistle, Egypt's goals came from Nadine Ghazi, who converted a first-half stoppage-time penalty before adding another in the 84th minute.
Nigeria responded with six goals, including late penalties converted by Rasheedat Ajibade and Christy Ucheibe, before adding another deep into stoppage time.
Rinsola Babajide was named the match's outstanding player after playing a decisive role in Nigeria's attacking display.
Why the Result Matters
Qualification for the quarter-finals keeps Nigeria on course to challenge for another WAFCON title, a competition they have historically dominated.
The Super Falcons entered the tournament carrying significant expectations following renewed investment in the women's national team and growing public attention on women's football across Africa.
A convincing victory over Egypt reinforces Nigeria's credentials ahead of the knockout stage, where mistakes become increasingly costly.
An Attack That Delivered, But Questions Remain
While scoring six goals reflects Nigeria's attacking quality, conceding twice against Egypt may raise questions for the coaching staff.
One goal came from a penalty late in the first half before Egypt added another with six minutes remaining.
Defensive lapses against stronger opposition in the knockout rounds could prove more expensive.
The balance between Nigeria's impressive attacking football and defensive discipline is therefore likely to become a key talking point as the tournament progresses.
Babajide Continues to Impress
Babajide's recognition as Woman of the Match reflects her growing influence within the Super Falcons squad.
Her pace, movement and creativity consistently troubled Egypt's defence, contributing significantly to Nigeria's attacking success.
Individual awards do not determine tournament success, but performances such as this strengthen her case as one of Nigeria's key players heading into the quarter-finals.
Nigeria's WAFCON Legacy
Nigeria remain the most successful nation in Women's Africa Cup of Nations history, having won the competition more times than any other country.
Reaching the quarter-finals is therefore viewed as meeting expectations rather than exceeding them.
However, every tournament presents fresh challenges, with several African nations investing heavily in women's football and narrowing the competitive gap.
What Happens Next?
Nigeria will now prepare for a quarter-final fixture against another qualifying nation, with the winner moving into the final four of the tournament.
The Super Falcons are expected to review defensive weaknesses exposed against Egypt while seeking to maintain the attacking form that produced six goals.
For Egypt, attention will turn to rebuilding after an inconsistent campaign that ended before the knockout rounds.
