Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie was selected for a mandatory anti-doping test after Nigeria's 1-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group C match at the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday, August 1. The 29-year-old confirmed after the game that the routine random test delayed her departure from the stadium.
Alozie played the full 90 minutes and put in a composed defensive performance, earning the Woman of the Match award as Nigeria secured a crucial win. The result was particularly important because Nigeria had opened their campaign with a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi and needed to bounce back to revive their hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
Red card and tactical reshuffle
The match took a dramatic turn when Blessing Demehin was sent off for denying Zambia captain Barbara Banda a clear goalscoring opportunity. That red card left Nigeria with 10 players for more than 50 minutes and forced a tactical adjustment from the coaching staff.
Alozie, who had started at right-back, was switched to left-back to help cover the gap. The 29-year-old responded with several key interceptions and clearances, helping to keep Zambia at bay. The Southern African side managed just two shots on target all match, with Nigeria's defensive structure proving resilient even in the face of numerical disadvantage.
Alozie credited the collective effort
Despite being named Woman of the Match, Alozie was humble in her post-match reaction. "Yes, that [the drug testing] is true, but I don't really know if I really deserve the man of the match [award]. I think it was really a team effort, and we really came out on top today," she said.
The quote underscores the spirit within the Super Falcons squad after a difficult start to the tournament. Alozie, who plays her club football with the Chicago Stars, has been a consistent presence in the Nigerian backline. Her ability to adapt to the left-back role after Demehin's dismissal shows the versatility she brings to the team.
Nigeria's path to the quarter-finals
With three points from two matches, Nigeria finds itself in a much stronger position heading into the final group game. A clash with Egypt on August 5 will determine the final standings in Group C. A victory would guarantee the Super Falcons a place in the WAFCON quarter-finals.
The team will, however, need to manage their discipline carefully after Demehin's red card. They will also look to carry forward the defensive determination displayed against Zambia, with Alozie likely to play an important role once again.
The Super Falcons have now won one and lost one in Group C, and they will be keen to finish strong. With Egypt awaiting, the team knows that a loss could leave them relying on other results, so the motivation is clear.
Key takeaways
- Nigeria defeated Zambia 1-0 in the 2026 WAFCON Group C match on Saturday.
- Michelle Alozie was named Woman of the Match and underwent a routine drug test.
- Blessing Demehin was sent off for denying Barbara Banda a clear scoring chance.
- Nigeria played with 10 women for over 50 minutes and still kept a clean sheet.
- Zambia only managed two shots on target.
- The Super Falcons face Egypt on August 5; a win secures a quarter-final spot.
Anti-doping tests are a routine part of international football, and players selected for samples after matches often face delays before heading back to their teams or accommodation. Alozie's case was no exception, as she remained at the stadium to provide a sample before being allowed to leave.
The experience, while cumbersome, did not dampen the defender's spirits. Her focus has already shifted to the crucial clash with Egypt, where a win would seal Nigeria's progress to the quarter-finals of the WAFCON.
