WAFCON 2026: Nigeria’s Super Falcons suffer shock defeat against Malawi

Nigeria's quest for an unprecedented 11th Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title began with a stunning upset on Tuesday, as tournament debutants Malawi secured a historic 3-2 victory over the Super Falcons. The match, held at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, marks one of the biggest shocks in the competition's history.

Despite arriving as defending champions and having won eight of their previous nine matches, Nigeria dominated the early stages, creating numerous scoring opportunities but failing to convert in a goalless first half. The game dramatically shifted in the final minutes. Malawi took the lead in the 73rd minute through Temwa Chawinga, and her sister, Tabitha Chawinga, doubled their advantage six minutes later, leaving the favored Nigerian side facing an unlikely defeat.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty in the 90th minute, reviving Nigeria's hopes of snatching a point. However, Temwa Chawinga scored again in stoppage time to restore Malawi's two-goal lead. Substitute Uchenna Kanu managed to pull one back in the ninth minute of added time, but it was too late for the Super Falcons to complete another dramatic comeback. Malawi held on for their famous victory.

The defeat places Nigeria in a precarious position in Group C. Zambia currently leads the group on goal difference after a commanding 6-0 win over Egypt. Nigeria and Egypt are yet to secure any points. The Super Falcons now face a critical must-win encounter against Zambia on Saturday, where maximum points are essential to revive their chances of advancing to the quarterfinals and continuing their pursuit of an 11th WAFCON title.