Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie has played down her individual achievement after winning the Woman of the Match award following Nigeria’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The right-back delivered an impressive performance as Nigeria secured a crucial win despite playing the majority of the game with 10 players after Oluwatosin Demehin was sent off.
Alozie, who was recognised for her display, insisted the award belonged to the entire team rather than her alone, praising the collective effort that helped Nigeria overcome a difficult challenge against a dangerous Zambia side.
“I don’t even know if I really deserve the Woman of the Match award. I think it was really a team effort, and we really came out on top today,” Alozie told reporters in the mixed zone post-match.
The defender admitted the match was physically demanding, especially with Zambia’s attacking threats, including Barbra Banda, Racheal Kundananji and Prisca Chilufya, putting pressure on the Nigerian defence.
“It was so exhausting. All props to Zambia. Obviously, they have Barbra, Racheal, and Prisca, and they are definitely really fast. So, I think it was really a testament to how we were able to defend and keep them out,” she added.
Nigeria’s ability to hold on for victory after going down to 10 players was a major talking point, with Alozie praising the fighting spirit of the Super Falcons.
“I think it really shows the fight of the Super Falcons and how, even though we’re down, we’re going to give everything we have. And I think that’s what we did,” she revealed.
The victory helped Nigeria bounce back after their disappointing opening defeat to Malawi and kept their hopes alive in their Wafcon title defence. Alozie urged supporters to continue backing the team, insisting the Super Falcons remain determined to compete.
“Definitely don’t count us out. I know we obviously didn’t start the way that we wanted to, but I feel like the Super Falcons always show up again and again. So, I just need the fans to stay with us and continue supporting us,” she said.
Addressing criticism from some fans, Alozie explained that the team’s strong bond and positive atmosphere behind the scenes have helped them stay together.
“I think this team is so fun. We keep the spirits high. We like making our TikToks. We like to bond with each other. We love social media, and it’s just how we’re able to bond with each other. So, I think everyone should just relax, allow us to be fun, and build our team chemistry,” she said.
When asked if fans would see her return to TikTok, Alozie responded with a smile: “Maybe. I don’t know. The fans are a little crazy.”
The defender also reflected on winning her first Woman of the Match award, describing it as a special moment but again crediting her teammates.
“Kind of crazy, but again, I think all 11 of us, plus the substitutes who came in, so all 15 of us deserve the Woman of the Match award. It was definitely deserved for the whole team as a collective, especially after going down one player,” she said.
Alozie also explained her ability to operate on both sides of the pitch, having featured from the left and right during Nigeria’s matches.
“I think I was a little comfortable because I’m able to play with both feet. I think on the right side, I’m just able to get up a little more because me and Rash have been playing with each other a little bit longer. But I just did what I had to do for the team,” she explained.
The defender also praised her close relationship with Esther Okoronkwo, revealing how their friendship has helped them through their journey with the national team.
“She’s just my girl. We’ve been with the Super Falcons together. We got on the team together. So, just being able to join this whole entire process with her has been a blessing. I love her very much,” Alozie said.
Wale Adejumo
Discussions (0)