Nigeria’s Super Falcons suffered a surprise 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Rabat on Tuesday.
After a goalless first half, Malawi broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute through Temwa Chawinga before Tabitha Chawinga doubled the lead six minutes later.
Nigeria pulled one back in stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty to make it 2-1. Malawi restored their two-goal advantage moments later as Temwa Chawinga scored her second of the match.
The Super Falcons continued to press and Uchenna Kanu reduced the deficit deep into added time, but Nigeria could not find an equaliser as Malawi secured a famous 3-2 victory on their WAFCON debut.
The result ended Nigeria’s unbeaten record against tournament debutants and handed the defending champions an unexpected setback in their bid for an 11th WAFCON title.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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