Malawi Stuns Super Falcons in WAFCON Opener

Nigeria's hope for an 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title took a hit on Tuesday. Tournament newcomers Malawi shocked the defending champions 3-2 in their first Group C match.

The Scorchers gave a strong performance, handing the ten-time African champions a tough start in their title defense.

After a tight first half, Malawi scored the first goal in the 73rd minute. Temwa Chawinga found the net. Captain Tabitha Chawinga then made it 2-0 six minutes later, leaving the Super Falcons in a tough spot.

Nigeria managed to score in stoppage time. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty in the 90+2nd minute, raising hopes for a comeback.

But those hopes faded quickly. Temwa Chawinga scored again just three minutes later, making it 3-1 and sealing the game for Malawi.

The Super Falcons did not give up. Substitute Uchenna Kanu found the net in the ninth minute of stoppage time, bringing the score to 3-2.

However, there was no time left to level the game. Malawi celebrated a historic victory.

This result is one of the biggest shocks in the history of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Malawi made their tournament debut by beating Africa’s most successful women’s national team.

Now, Nigeria must regroup for their next Group C match to keep their hopes alive. Meanwhile, Malawi's win has boosted their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.

Before the match, coach Lovemore Fazili made his intentions clear. “Getting this far means that we are ready for this match. People may underestimate us but we are a good team, capable of causing an upset. We are not resigned victims,” he said.

Captain Tabitha Chawinga was excited for the game. “It was my dream to play in the WAFCON. The time has come. We know Nigeria’s worth. They are a great nation but we must focus on ourselves. Our players need to compete without any inferiority complex,” she said before the match.