Nigeria will not underestimate Egypt, says Ohale

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Super Falcons defender Osinachi Ohale has assured that Nigeria will not underrate Egypt when they meet in their final Group C fixture of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday (today), PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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Ohale is one of the most experienced players in the squad, having starred in the Nigerian defence since 2010 and winning five WAFCON titles.

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With the Falcons needing a victory to strengthen their chances of reaching the quarter-finals, Ohale insists the team are fully aware of what is at stake and will approach the encounter with the seriousness it deserves.

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“We already know what is at stake and we are taking it with all seriousness. It will be much better than the previous matches,” Ohale said.

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Nigeria began their title defence with a shock 3-2 defeat to debutants Malawi before recovering with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia, despite playing with 10 players following Tosin Demehin’s first-half dismissal.

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The result left the Falcons on three points, three behind leaders Malawi, heading into the final round of group fixtures.

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Egypt, meanwhile, have endured a difficult campaign, losing 6-0 to Zambia on the opening day before suffering a 3-1 defeat to Malawi, leaving them on the brink of elimination.

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Despite Egypt’s struggles, Ohale and her teammates know they cannot afford to be complacent as they seek to keep their title defence alive.

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Nigeria need a win against Egypt, while also hoping for a favourable result in the other Group C fixture between Zambia and Malawi, to secure their passage to the quarter-finals.

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The Falcons are chasing a successful title defence and an 11th continental crown, with the tournament also serving as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

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