Defending champions Nigeria suffered a surprise 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in a dramatic Group C clash at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Rabat.
After a goalless first half, Malawi struck twice through Temwa Chawinga and Tabitha Chawinga to take a commanding lead. Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 90th minute, but Temwa restored Malawi’s two-goal advantage in stoppage time with her second goal of the match.
Substitute Uchenna Kanu gave Nigeria late hope with a stoppage-time header, but the Super Falcons could not find an equaliser as Malawi celebrated a famous victory in their first-ever WAFCON appearance.
The result leaves the 10-time African champions under pressure ahead of a crucial Group C showdown with Zambia, who began their campaign with a commanding 6-0 win over Egypt. Nigeria will now need a positive result to strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.The result leaves the 10-time African champions under pressure ahead of a crucial Group C showdown with Zambia, who began their campaign with a commanding 6-0 win over Egypt. Nigeria will now need a positive result to strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
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