A first-half barrage led Justine Madugu’s team to a decisive 5-0 victory over the Copper Queens in a high-scoring match at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.

This result not only sets the West Africans on the path to a record tenth African title but also serves as sweet revenge for their earlier defeat against Zambia in the competition.

According to the icon based in Finland, who won the African title during a trophy-laden 14-year international career, the Nigerian ladies have demonstrated they are formidable contenders for the crown in Morocco.

“I must say, Nigeria’s victory over Zambia doesn’t surprise me. The Super Falcons possess an extraordinary ability to rise when others doubt them,” Yusuf told Flashscore.com.

“While this win caught many by surprise, it clearly indicates that Nigeria remains a dominant force in African football. They have silenced critics who questioned their abilities.

“Beyond just a win, this sends a powerful message to teams across the continent that Nigeria is still the team to beat.

“It’s a reminder that the Super Falcons are not merely participants in Morocco; they are serious contenders, committed to defending their legacy and pursuing a historic tenth African title.

“The journey is far from over, and I am confident they will continue to fight with passion, heart, and pride.”

After four matches, the Super Falcons have netted nine goals while maintaining a clean sheet throughout, showcasing their defensive prowess.

The last time the team went unbeaten without conceding in as many games was during the 1998 edition when they went on to become African champions.

Super Falcons must avoid complacency.

Yusuf, who currently serves as the head coach of Viikingit FC’s U13 boys team in Finland and is considered a potential future manager of the Super Falcons, following in the footsteps of Uche Eucharia and Florence Omagbemi,shared her insights on the quality depth in coach Madugu’s squad.

“Kudos must go to Coach Madugu for putting together a strong, balanced squad filled with quality players. I truly appreciate the way he organized the team,” she continued.

“There’s no overreliance on any single player, and the Super Falcons are functioning as a cohesive unit, and that hunger was evident in their performance against Zambia.

“You could see the intensity, the drive, and the determination to win. When they play with that level of energy, they are capable of defeating any team in this tournament.

“What’s most encouraging is how every player steps up and contributes, which reflects the team’s depth and spirit.

“However, they must not become complacent at this crucial juncture. They are just two wins away from being crowned African champions again, and maintaining focus, discipline, and hunger will be essential.

“With this momentum, they have every opportunity to make history once again.”

What else has been said

Zambia coach Nora Hauptle acknowledged Nigeria’s superiority, admitting they deserved the win, while expressing confidence that her team would return stronger in the next edition.

“First of all, congratulations to our opponents, Nigeria, for a very well-deserved victory,” she stated.

“We must accept that in all the critical moments, they outperformed us. They won the duels in offense and defense, controlled the aerial battles, especially in attack and defense.

“Physically, they were stronger than us. So, for me, it was a fantastic performance from their side. We need to acknowledge that, congratulate them, and recognize that they will go far in this tournament.”

Nigeria’s fourth-place finish in the last edition was their worst performance in the history of the competition.

In this edition, they aim to reclaim the title but must first overcome either South Africa or Senegal in the semi-final for a chance to reach the final.