Nigeria’s campaign to win an unprecedented 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title began on a disappointing note after the Super Falcons were beaten 3-2 by tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C fixture on Tuesday.
The Scorchers made a dream start to life at the continental tournament, producing a determined performance to defeat the defending champions.
The first half ended without a goal, but Malawi broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute when Temwa Chawinga found the back of the net. Six minutes later, captain Tabitha Chawinga doubled the lead to put Nigeria in a difficult position.
The Super Falcons fought back late in the game, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade converting a penalty in the second minute of stoppage time to make it 2-1.
Malawi quickly responded as Temwa Chawinga grabbed her second goal of the match in the 90+5th minute, restoring her side’s two-goal advantage.
Nigeria continued to push forward, and substitute Uchenna Kanu scored in the ninth minute of added time, but it was not enough to prevent the defending champions from suffering defeat.
The victory goes down as one of the biggest surprises in WAFCON history, with Malawi defeating the competition’s most successful team in their first-ever appearance.
Nigeria will now look to recover in their next Group C match as they aim to keep their title defence alive, while Malawi have taken a major step towards reaching the knockout rounds.
Ahead of the game, Malawi head coach Lovemore Fazili had expressed confidence that his players were capable of causing an upset.
“Getting this far means that we are ready for this match.
“People may underestimate us but we are a good team, capable of causing an upset. We are not resigned victims.”
Captain Tabitha Chawinga also spoke of her excitement before the encounter.
“It was my dream to play in the WAFCON. The time has come. We know Nigeria’s worth.”
