Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie underwent a mandatory drug test after Nigeria’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group C fixture at the ongoing 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The 29-year-old confirmed after the match that she had participated in the routine anti-doping test, which delayed her departure from the stadium.
Alozie delivered an outstanding performance throughout the encounter, playing the full 90 minutes and earning the Player of the Match award for her defensive display as Nigeria held on for victory despite playing with 10 players for more than 50 minutes following Tosin Demehin’s red card.
The Chicago Stars defender began the game at right-back before switching to left-back as part of a tactical adjustment. Her interceptions, clearances and defensive discipline helped restrict Zambia to just two shots on target, keeping Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage firmly alive.
Despite receiving the individual honour, Alozie insisted the victory was a collective effort and commended her teammates for responding positively after the opening-match defeat to Malawi.
“Yes, that [the drug testing] is true,“ she started, “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,” Alozie added.
The Super Falcons will face Egypt in their final Group C fixture on August 5, with a win expected to secure their place in the quarter-finals.