Chelsea Women players have thrown their weight behind the Super Falcons ahead of the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite Nigeria's opening-day loss to Malawi. In a TikTok video posted on the club's official account, the majority of Chelsea stars tipped Nigeria to lift the trophy, showing confidence in the defending champions despite a rocky start.
Chelsea Stars Predict WAFCON Winner
The video asked players to name the team they believed would win the tournament. Nigeria emerged as the most popular pick in the Chelsea dressing room, with defenders, midfielders, and forwards alike voicing support for the Super Falcons. Other teams receiving mentions included Malawi, South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia.
Defender Lucy Bronze went a step further, singling out her former club teammate Asisat Oshoala as her pick for the tournament's top scorer. Bronze, who played alongside Oshoala at Barcelona before the Nigerian striker moved to Chelsea, said she expected Oshoala to lead the goal charts.
Super Falcons Face Uphill Battle After Shock Defeat
Nigeria's campaign began disastrously with a 3-2 loss to Malawi's Scorchers, a nation appearing at their maiden WAFCON. The Chawinga sisters played pivotal roles in securing the historic win for Malawi. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade and Uchenna Kanu both found the net for Nigeria, but their efforts were not enough to salvage a result, as noted by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
This defeat has placed the Super Falcons in a precarious group-stage position, leaving them with little margin for error in their remaining matches. It marks the first time Nigeria has conceded three goals in a WAFCON match and the first loss to a debutant at the tournament—having previously won 16 and drawn one of 17 games against first-timers.
Lucy Bronze Picks Oshoala for Top Scorer Honor
Lucy Bronze's endorsement of Asisat Oshoala adds star power to the Super Falcons' hopes. Oshoala, currently with Chelsea Women, has a track record of clutch performances for Nigeria. Bronze's confidence reflects the belief within the Chelsea camp that Nigeria can overcome their early setback.
The endorsement from one of England's top clubs arrives at a difficult moment for the Nigerian side. However, the show of support from Chelsea players suggests the Super Falcons are still viewed as a formidable force capable of rallying.
Must-Win Clash Against Zambia Awaits Nigeria
Nigeria's next assignment is against Zambia, who sent a clear statement of intent by thrashing Egypt 6-0 in their opening fixture. The Copper Queens' commanding performance makes them a formidable obstacle for a Nigerian side still searching for their best form.
A win is essential for the Super Falcons not only to keep their semi-final hopes alive but also to stay on course for qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, which is tied to WAFCON performance. With Chelsea Women's stars believing they have what it takes, the pressure is now on captain Rasheedat Ajibade and her teammates to deliver on the pitch.
Historic Loss Sets Unwanted Records
The defeat to Malawi set several unwanted records. According to statistics from Legit.ng, the Super Falcons conceded three goals for the first time in WAFCON history, and it came in the 14th edition of the tournament. The 10-time African champions also lost to a debutant for the first time, ending a streak of 16 wins and one draw against first-time participants.
As the Super Falcons regroup, the backing from Chelsea Women provides a psychological boost. Whether that translates into improved performance against Zambia remains to be seen, but the vote of confidence from top professionals underscores the talent within the Nigerian squad.
