Nigeria's Super Falcons suffered a shocking 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 Group C opener at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday, July 22. The result marked Malawi's first-ever victory at the competition, delivering a major blow to Nigeria's quest for a record 11th continental title.
Malawi Stuns Defending Champions with Late Goals
Malawi produced one of the biggest shocks in CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations history by beating the record champions. The Falcons controlled much of the first half without scoring, but Malawi struck three times in the closing stages to seal an unlikely win, according to CAF Online.
Temwa Chawinga opened the scoring in the 73rd minute, before her sister Tabitha Chawinga added a second six minutes later. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty in the 90th minute to give Nigeria hope, but Temwa Chawinga struck again in the sixth minute of added time to restore a two-goal lead. Substitute Uchenna Kanu headed in a stoppage-time goal in the ninth minute, yet the comeback fell short as Malawi held on.
Oshoala Appeals for Unity
After the final whistle, veteran striker Asisat Oshoala made a direct appeal to supporters not to turn their backs on the squad. Speaking to Nigerian journalist Isemuan, she said: "The only thing I can say right now is we need their support right now, the World Cup ticket is at stake." Oshoala acknowledged the pain of the result but stressed that the team's focus must shift immediately to their remaining fixtures, with World Cup qualification still achievable.
Group C Standings and Next Match
The defeat leaves Nigeria second from bottom in Group C without a point. Zambia top the table after thrashing Egypt 6-0 in the other group fixture, with captain Barbra Banda starring. Malawi sit second on three points. The Super Falcons now face Zambia on Saturday in a match they must win to keep their quarter-final hopes and World Cup qualification ambitions alive.
Nigeria entered the tournament in strong form, having won eight of their previous nine matches, with head coach Justin Madugu confident of a winning start to the title defence. Madugu had earlier warned against underestimating any opponent, emphasizing the team's respect for all.
The result has put Nigeria in a precarious position, but Oshoala's call for unity underscores the team's determination to bounce back and secure their place at the next Women's World Cup.
