Asisat Oshoala has appealed to Nigerians to stand by the Super Falcons after Malawi stunned the ten-time champions 3-2 in their WAFCON opener, insisting the team’s World Cup qualification dream remains alive.
“The only thing I can say right now is we need their support right now, the World Cup ticket is at stake,” Oshoala said after the match, urging fans not to turn their backs on the squad despite the setback.
Her comments came after Malawi produced one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history, beating Africa’s most successful women’s national team on their tournament debut. Temwa Chawinga broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute, converting an assist from Ireen Khumalo to score Malawi’s first-ever WAFCON goal. Her sister Tabitha Chawinga doubled the advantage six minutes later, finishing off a pass from Sabina Thom.
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Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a stoppage-time penalty to raise hopes of a comeback, but Temwa Chawinga struck again three minutes later to complete her brace and restore Malawi’s two-goal cushion.
Substitute Uchenna Kanu scored deep into added time to reduce the gap to 3-2, but Nigeria couldn’t find a leveler before the final whistle.
The defeat leaves Nigeria’s bid for a record-extending 11th WAFCON title, and their World Cup qualification hopes, hanging by a thread ahead of their remaining group fixtures.
Elsewhere in Group C, Zambia served notice as genuine contenders, thrashing Egypt 6-0 at the Rabat Olympic Stadium. Captain Barbra Banda scored four goals and set up another, while Racheal Nachula opened the scoring from the penalty spot and substitute Eneless Phiri added a late fifth.
Group C Standings – WAFCON 2026
Zambia – 3pts
Malawi – 3pts
Nigeria – 0pts
Egypt – 0pts
Nigeria now face Zambia on Saturday in a fixture that could define their campaign, while Malawi’s historic win has significantly boosted their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
Egypt, bottom of the group after their heavy defeat, will look to Malawi as a chance to get their campaign back on track.
