Super Falcons defender Ashley Plumptre has expressed confidence that Nigeria will bounce back from its disappointing start to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite admitting the team’s defeat to Malawi came as a major shock.
The 10-time African champions suffered a surprise 3-2 loss to the Scorchers in their opening Group C fixture, leaving them under pressure ahead of Saturday’s crucial clash against Zambia.
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Reflecting on the unexpected setback, Plumptre acknowledged that both the performance and the result fell below the standards expected of the Super Falcons.
“It was a shocking result for us because we know the quality we have as a team. We didn’t expect to start the tournament that way, but we have to move forward,” Plumptre said.
The Leicester City defender admitted she is feeling nervous ahead of the meeting with the Copper Queens, describing Zambia as one of the strongest sides in African women’s football.
“I’m nervous because Zambia are a very good team, and we know how important this match is. There’s pressure on us to win, but I think this team performs better when the pressure is on,” she added.
Nigeria heads into the encounter knowing that a victory would significantly improve its chances of reaching the knockout stage after the disappointing opening-day defeat.
Plumptre believes the experience within the squad will help the players respond positively, stressing that the Super Falcons have repeatedly shown resilience in difficult situations throughout their history.
With their WAFCON title defence on the line, the defender is confident Nigeria can produce the performance required to reignite its campaign and remain in contention for a record-extending 11th continental crown.
