Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie underwent a mandatory anti-doping test following Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Zambia in their second Group C match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday.
The 29-year-old confirmed after the match that she had been selected for the routine random drug test, which delayed her departure from the stadium.
Alozie delivered an outstanding performance, playing the full 90 minutes and earning the Woman of the Match award after helping Nigeria secure a crucial victory despite playing with 10 players for more than 50 minutes.
The Chicago Stars FC defender started the match at right-back before switching to left-back following the sending-off of Blessing Demehin for denying Zambia captain Barbara Banda a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Alozie produced several vital interceptions and clearances as Nigeria limited Zambia to just two shots on target, keeping the defending champions’ hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
Despite receiving the individual honour, Alozie credited the team’s collective effort for the victory, especially after their disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi.
“Yes, that [the drug testing] is true, but I don’t really 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,” she said.
Nigeria will face Egypt women’s national football team in their final Group C fixture on August 5, with a win guaranteeing a place in the WAFCON quarter-finals.