BY KINGLEY EMMANUEL
Nigeria’s bid to win a record 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title hit an unexpected speed bump after a shocking 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their Group C opener.
Despite Nigeria’s status as heavy favorites, a ruthless Malawi team seized their opportunities to record a historic victory in their very first WAFCON match.
The match exploded into life late in the second half. Temwa Chawinga opened the scoring for Malawi in the 73rd minute, and her sister, team captain Tabitha Chawinga, added a second six minutes later to put Nigeria on the back foot.
Rasheedat Ajibade gave the Super Falcons a glimmer of hope by converting a penalty in stoppage time. However, Temwa Chawinga struck right back almost immediately to restore Malawi’s two-goal lead. A late goal from substitute Uchenna Kanu brought Nigeria closer, but time ran out before the Falcons could pull off a comeback.
The setback places immediate pressure on Nigeria’s tournament campaign. With little room left for error, the Super Falcons must deliver strong performances in their remaining group matches to guarantee a spot in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, Malawi has taken a massive step toward reaching the knockout stage in their debut appearance.
