Malawi produced one of the biggest upsets in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations history, defeating defending champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons 3-2 in a thrilling Group C clash at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday night.
The Scorchers, making only their first appearance at the tournament, stunned the record 10-time champions with a fearless display to claim a famous victory and take a major step towards the knockout stage.
Themwa Chawinga scored twice for Malawi in the game, with her sister Tabitha Chawinga also on target.
The Super Falcons got their goals through Rasheedat Ajibade, and substitute Uchenna Kanu.
The result leaves Justine Madugu’s side with plenty of work to do in their quest to successfully defend the continental title, while Malawi celebrated a historic win in their WAFCON debut campaign.
The Super Falcons will face the Copper Queens of Zambia in their next game on Saturday.
Meanwhile Asisat Oshoala has apologised to Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ disappointing 3-2 defeat to Malawi in their opening Group C match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday night.
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The defending champions suffered a shock setback at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat despite fighting hard throughout the contest.
Malawi’s victory was inspired by a brace from Tembi Chawinga, while Tabitha Chawinga also found the back of the net for the Scorchers.
Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty to pull one back for Nigeria, while substitute Uchenna Kanu added a second late in the game, but it was not enough to prevent defeat.
Speaking after the match, Oshoala expressed her disappointment with the result and pleaded with football-loving Nigerians to forgive the team for the poor start to their title defence.
“Smaller nations are closing the gap, but it’s also a wake-up call for Nigeria. We have to understand that other teams want to win this trophy as well,” Oshoala said after the game.
“It’s still a long competition, and all we need to do is prepare well for the next game.
“We are sorry for losing the opening game to Malawi.”
Crediblenewsng.com
