A first-half onslaught propelled Justine Madugu’s side to a commanding 5-0 victory over the Copper Queens in the high-scoring match at Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca.
The result not only put the West Africans on track for a record tenth African title but also served as sweet revenge for their previous defeat to Zambian in the competition.
According to the Finland-based icon, who won the African title during a trophy-laden 14-year international career, the Nigerian ladies have proven they are strong contenders for the crown in Morocco.
"I must say, Nigeria’s win over Zambia doesn’t surprise me. The Super Falcons have an incredible ability to rise when others doubt them," Yusuf told Flashscore.com.
"While this victory caught many off guard, it clearly shows that Nigeria remains a dominant force in African football. They have silenced critics who questioned their capabilities.
"Beyond just a win, this sends a strong message to teams across the continent that Nigeria is still the team to beat.
"It’s a reminder that the Super Falcons are not mere participants in Morocco; they are serious contenders, determined to defend their legacy and chase 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 scored nine goals while keeping a clean sheet throughout, highlighting their defensive strength.
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 tipped as a potential future manager of the Super Falcons, following in the footsteps of Uche Eucharia and Florence Omagbemi, shared her thoughts on the depth of quality in coach Madugu’s squad.
"Kudos must go to Coach Madugu for assembling a strong, balanced squad full of quality players. I really appreciate the way he set up the team," she continued.
"There’s no overreliance on any single player and also the Super Falcons are playing as a cohesive unit, and that hunger was clear in their performance against Zambia.
"You could see the intensity, the drive, and the determination to win. When they play with that kind of energy, they are capable of beating any team in this tournament.
"What’s most encouraging is how every player steps up and contributes, which speaks volumes about the team’s depth and spirit.
"However, they must not get complacent at this critical stage. They are just two wins away from being crowned African champions again, and staying focused, disciplined, and hungry will be key.
"With this momentum, they have every chance to make history once more."
What else has been said
Zambia coach Nora Hauptle acknowledged Nigeria’s dominance, admitting they deserved the victory, while expressing confidence that her team would come back stronger in the next edition.
"First of all, congratulations to our opponents, Nigeria for a very well-deserved victory," she said.
"We must accept that in all the key moments, they outperformed us. They won the duels in offence and defence, controlled the aerial battles, especially in attack and defence.
"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 recognise 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.
This editon, they hope to reclaim the title but must first overcome either South Africa or Senegal in the semi-final for a chance to reach the final.
