Malawi made history by defeating defending champions Nigeria 3-2 in their maiden Women's Africa Cup of Nations appearance, despite a late Super Falcons comeback.
Defending champions Nigeria suffered one of the biggest upsets in the history of the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) after falling 3-2 to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C fixture in Rabat, Morocco. The result marked the first time the Super Falcons have lost to a nation making its debut at the continental championship.
Coming into the tournament as overwhelming favourites and record 10-time African champions, the Super Falcons dominated possession for much of the encounter but were unable to convert their chances into goals. Malawi, inspired by sisters Temwa Chawinga and Tabitha Chawinga, produced a disciplined and clinical second-half display to claim a famous victory.
After a goalless first half, Malawi broke the deadlock in the second period before doubling their advantage as Nigeria struggled defensively. The Scorchers continued to punish defensive lapses and added a third goal late in the game, leaving the defending champions with a mountain to climb.
The Super Falcons responded in stoppage time through captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who converted Nigeria's first goal to spark hopes of an unlikely comeback. Moments later, substitute Uchenna Kanu added another goal deep into added time, reducing the deficit to 3-2. However, the late rally proved insufficient as Malawi held on to secure all three points.
The victory represents one of the greatest achievements in Malawian women's football. Playing in their first-ever WAFCON tournament, the Scorchers demonstrated resilience, tactical discipline and confidence against Africa's most successful women's national team. Their performance immediately throws Group C wide open and boosts their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.
For Nigeria, the defeat serves as an early setback in the quest for an unprecedented 11th WAFCON title. Head coach Justin Madugu's side will now face increased pressure in their remaining group matches against Zambia and Egypt, where positive results will be essential to keep their title defence and qualification hopes alive.
Football analysts described Malawi's victory as a reminder of the rapid growth of women's football across Africa, with emerging nations increasingly capable of challenging the continent's traditional powerhouses. The result is also expected to inject fresh excitement into the tournament as several teams look to capitalize on Nigeria's unexpected defeat.
Despite the disappointing start, the Super Falcons remain one of Africa's strongest women's teams and will be expected to respond positively in their next outing. Supporters will now look to experienced stars such as Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, Chiamaka Nnadozie and Jennifer Echegini to inspire a turnaround as Nigeria pursues qualification for the knockout stages and a place at the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.