Nigeria’s dream start to the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) ended in disaster as tournament debutants Malawi stunned the Super Falcons 3-2 in one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history, throwing the defending champions’ title defence into immediate danger.
Key Highlights:
- Malawi shock 10-time champions Nigeria 3-2 in Group C opener.
- Temwa Chawinga scores twice as Malawi records a historic first WAFCON victory.
- Rasheedat Ajibade converts a penalty, while Nnadi Kanu also scores for Nigeria.
- Goalkeeping errors prove costly for the Super Falcons.
- Nigeria must now beat Zambia to keep hopes of retaining the title alive.
The 10-time African champions dominated possession for long spells and created several scoring opportunities through Esther Okoronkwo and captain Rasheedat Ajibade, but Malawi goalkeeper Mercy Sikelo produced a string of outstanding saves to frustrate the Falcons as the first half ended goalless.
The match turned dramatically after the break when Malawi coach’s tactical changes transformed the contest. In the 73rd minute, star striker Temwa Chawinga punished a costly error by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to score Malawi’s historic first-ever WAFCON goal and hand the tournament newcomers a surprise lead.
Read Also:
- FG Presents Houses, $100,000 Cash Incentive To Super Falcons Players, Technical Team For Winning 2025 WAFCON
- Super Falcons Begin WAFCON Title Defence Against Malawi As Flying Eagles Sink Ghana 4-2
- Finally, 2026 WAFCON Kicks Off In Morocco July 26
Moments later, Tabitha Chawinga burst through Nigeria’s defence with a brilliant solo run before calmly finishing to double Malawi’s advantage and leave the defending champions reeling.
Nigeria responded in stoppage time when Rasheedat Ajibade converted from the penalty spot to reduce the deficit to 2-1. However, Malawi struck again almost immediately as Temwa Chawinga grabbed her second goal after another defensive lapse to restore the two-goal cushion.
The late drama continued as substitute Nnadi Kanu scored Nigeria’s second goal deep into added time, but the Super Falcons could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.
The stunning defeat leaves Nigeria under immense pressure ahead of Saturday’s crucial clash against Zambia, who opened their campaign with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Egypt thanks to the brilliance of Barbra Banda and Rachel Kundananji.
Anything less than victory against Zambia could seriously damage Nigeria’s hopes of retaining the WAFCON crown and securing qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
