By Abigail David
Nigeria’s bid for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title suffered an early setback after tournament debutants Malawi claimed a stunning 3-2 victory over the defending champions in their Group C opener on Tuesday.
The Super Falcons held firm for much of the contest before Malawi broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute through Temwa Chawinga. Six minutes later, captain Tabitha Chawinga doubled the lead to put the Scorchers in control.
Nigeria responded in stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty in the 90+2nd minute to reduce the deficit. However, Temwa Chawinga restored Malawi’s two-goal advantage three minutes later with her second goal of the match.
Substitute Uchenna Kanu scored deep into stoppage time to make it 3-2, but Nigeria could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.
The victory marks one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history, with Malawi celebrating a memorable winning debut against Africa’s most successful women’s national team.
Before the match, Malawi coach Lovemore Fazili expressed confidence that his side could surprise the defending champions, while captain Tabitha Chawinga urged her teammates to face Nigeria without fear or an inferiority complex.
Following the opening round of Group C matches, Zambia lead the standings on goal difference after a 6-0 victory over Egypt, with Malawi also on three points. Nigeria sit third without a point, ahead of Egypt on goal difference.
The Super Falcons will face Zambia in a crucial Group C clash on Saturday, August 1, before concluding the group stage against Egypt on Wednesday, August 5. Nigeria can still qualify for the quarter-finals, with the top two teams in each group and the two best third-placed teams advancing to the knockout stage.
