
Ugochi Oparanozie backs Nigeria to overcome Banyana Banyana
As the CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) heats up, former Nigerian international and prolific forward Ugochi Desire Oparanozie believes Banyana Banyana is Nigeria's biggest threat to winning the WAFCON, but she feels the Super Falcons can get past them and ultimately claim the coveted title.
Oparanozie's insights come on the heels of Nigeria's emphatic 5-0 quarter-final victory over Zambia, setting up a tantalising semi-final clash against the defending champions on Tuesday night.
"I believe Nigeria’s biggest threat is Banyana Banyana, who are the defending champions,” Ugochi told Showmax Premier League.
“Once Nigeria can get past them, the WAFCON is as good as won by the Super Falcons," added Oparanozie, a seasoned veteran of the Nigerian national team.
Reflecting on Nigeria's dominant performance against Zambia, Oparanozie expressed immense satisfaction.
"Thank you so much. I was super excited and proud. It was a stellar performance from the team."
When asked about her overall impression of Nigeria's journey in the tournament, Oparanozie acknowledged initial concerns but lauded the team's collective effort.
“I was a bit worried during the group stage. Though they finished top of their group, they struggled to convert goal scoring opportunities. Perhaps they were saving it for Zambia!" (Laughs)

She further emphasised the team's unity as one of the keys to success during this year’s WAFCON.
"They have all been great. Every one of them has showed up as a team, a really effective team; they've all been very brilliant on the field."
Oparanozie is confident in Nigeria's ability to go all the way to be crowned WAFCON champions.
"Yes, I think they can. They've got what it takes to go past Banyana Banyana. Nigeria has talented players with winning experience, and I'm confident they will get the required result."
Beyond Nigeria's campaign, Oparanozie has been thoroughly impressed with the overall quality and competitiveness of this year's WAFCON.
"I think this WAFCON edition has been thrilling so far, with top teams and players showcasing their skills, and making history in every game. It’s a testament to how women's football in Africa has grown.
"Yes, I've been very impressed. Winning games is no longer a walk in the park – every win is achieved off hard work. Teams working really hard to earn their win. This is very impressive."

Highlighting the significant strides made in women's African football, Oparanozie elaborated.
“Women's football has improved a great deal in the past decade, in terms of the price money increment, organisation, educational programmes, number of WAFCON participating teams (from eight to 12), etcetera.
“In addition, Nigeria finished fourth at the last WAFCON edition, and having South Africa win it for the first time shows just how much progress other teams have made, and how much African football has grown and will continue to grow."
The stage is set for an epic semi-final showdown, with Oparanozie's insights adding another layer of anticipation to what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of Africa's footballing powerhouses.
How can fans get Showmax Premier League on their phones?
Sign up for the Showmax Premier League mobile plan for R99 p/m at www.showmax.com for all the Premier League action and more.
About Showmax
Showmax, launched in 2015 and available in more than 40 markets across the continent, is a leading African streaming service. It offers a unique combination of original African content, first and exclusive international series, popular movies, premium documentaries, and the best kids’ shows, as well as a world-first Premier League live-streaming mobile plan.
More like this

The clash of the new number 9s: Gyökeres vs Woltemade
Will Arsenal's Gyökeres or Newcastle United's Woltemade secure a victory for their club on Sunday, 28 September? Watch live on Showmax Premier League.

Red vs Blue: Showmax Premier League serves up a blockbuster weekend
We have a thrilling line up of football games on Showmax Premier League this weekend. Catch all the action live.

Blockbuster Premier League weekend: Red vs Blue
Its Red v Blue this weekend, with three blockbuster fixtures lined up to keep you on the edge of your seat. Stream them all on Showmax Premier League.

From doubt to dynamo: Micky van de Ven's rise at Tottenham
Ahead of the London derby between Spurs and West Ham, defender Micky van de Ven chats about his journey to the top.

Mhlongo's bold prediction: Pirates to clinch MTN8 Title for a fourth year running
Former Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo predicts his former club will go on to win their 4th consecutive MTN8 title.

Glory awaits: From MTN8 Kings to Manchester's Crown, football's biggest stage is on Showmax
With some mouthwatering football fixtures on the horizon, Showmax Premier League has you covered with all the action.

Giants S1
A compelling docuseries that takes you deep inside the lives of players from one of South Africa's most iconic football clubs, Orlando Pirates.

Uncover the soul of South African football with the boxset of Giants
You can now binge-watch all five episodes of Giants, which takes an unprecedented look behind the scenes of a legendary football club: Orlando Pirates
Laugh Africa Comedy Festival S2 on Showmax
Youngins S3, coming soon to Showmax
More West African greatness

Ship wars, schemers and shock moves: BBNaija S10 is unhinged
Missed any of the drama in the first two weeks of BBNaija S10? Here's a quick refresher. Catch all the non-stop chaos and shockers live on Showmax.

Meet the Housemates of BBNaija Season 10
BBNaija Season 10 introduces 15 Nigerian men and 15 Nigerian women, ready to set your screens on fire with strategic alliances, spicy ships, and unforgettable moves, streaming live on Showmax.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 launches on 26 and 27 July 2025
Big Brother Naija is coming back for its landmark 10th season. Premiering over two nights on 26 and 27 July 2025, exclusively on Africa Magic Showcase, Family and Showmax.

Iyanu S1
When a teenage orphan discovers she has magical powers, she embarks on a remarkable journey with her friends to discover the truth about the evil lurking in her homeland.
Latest Stories

The clash of the new number 9s: Gyökeres vs Woltemade

Red vs Blue: Showmax Premier League serves up a blockbuster weekend

Blockbuster Premier League weekend: Red vs Blue

Where to see the cast of Levels on Showmax

Showmax presents September 5: A riveting look at a pivotal moment in news history

From doubt to dynamo: Micky van de Ven's rise at Tottenham

Mhlongo's bold prediction: Pirates to clinch MTN8 Title for a fourth year running

Glory awaits: From MTN8 Kings to Manchester's Crown, football's biggest stage is on Showmax

Art, money and power: a blueprint for The Brutalist

Uncover the soul of South African football with the boxset of Giants

Rianza Snyman on Vaal Riviera and being a stay-at-home mom

The best Premier League signings of 2025's summer window

SA siblings’ debut film chosen for BFI London Film Festival

Simo Magwaza on his challenging role as De Klerk in Youngins

Christopher Jaftha gets top billing in raunchy Khaki Fever

Nkululeko Mahlangu on Makoto, marriage and more

Alexander Isak a great option for LFC's attack, say former Liverpool striker David Ngog

What to watch on Showmax in September 2025

Kate and Annie take charge in Ten Pound Poms Season 2

Tshepo Miya talks about being on Married at First Sight

Vilakazi's verdict: Sundowns to "edge it" in high-stakes MTN8 semi-final

Khaki Fever and more sexy Afrikaans movies and series

Rivalries reignite in thrilling Premier League games on Showmax

5 patients you’ll meet in The Pitt Season 1