Women's World Cup 2023 friendlies: Nigeria impress, Zambia and Morocco stumble

Nigeria bounce back, South Africa beaten by Serbia

Nigeria's Super Falcons had two friendlies on the schedule, and they did not disappoint. After seeing off Haiti (2-1), Asisat Oshoala's team-mates made light work of New Zealand (3-0), co-hosts of the Women's World Cup. It is an encouraging sign for the Nigerians, who had been in a crisis of confidence for some time. Fourth at the last Women's AFCON, they had suffered a seventh straight defeat against Colombia, in a friendly. They ended that run by beating Costa Rica. But everything now seems to be going well for the nine-time African champions. At the 2023 World Cup, Nigeria have been drawn in Group B with Canada, Australia and Ireland.

South Africa, meanwhile, faced Serbia. Despite the defeat, the Banyana Banyana were far from disgraced. The African champions even held their own against the Serbs, who edged a 3-2 win.

Morocco held back

Impressive in their recent outings, Morocco took on two European sides. And the Atlas Lionesses suffered two defeats. They first lost to the Czech Republic (2-0) before being beaten by Romania (1-0) on Tuesday 11 April. On their first appearance at the 2023 Women's World Cup, Morocco will face Germany, South Korea and Colombia in Group H.

Zambia swept aside by South Korea

Zambia travelled to South Korea for a two-match series. The Copper Queens were comprehensively beaten by the South Koreans in the first game (5-2). The hosts did it again on Tuesday in the second game (5-0). It means two heavy defeats for the Zambians three months before the World Cup. Zambia are in Group C with Spain, Japan and Costa Rica.

Also read: Women's World Cup 2023 friendlies: Morocco impress, Nigeria struggle