Malawi Stun Defending Champions Nigeria 3-2 In Dramatic WAFCON 2026 Opener

By Saheed Afolabi

Debutants Malawi produced one of the biggest shocks in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) history on Tuesday, defeating 10-time champions Nigeria 3-2 in their Group C opener at Al Madina Stadium, Rabat.

The Scorchers, appearing at the tournament for the first time, rode a brilliant display from the Chawinga sisters to overcome the Super Falcons in a thrilling encounter.

Temwa Chawinga scored twice, while her older sister Tabitha added another, as Malawi claimed a famous first-ever WAFCON victory.

Temwa opened the scoring in the 73rd minute before Tabitha doubled the lead six minutes later. Nigeria responded late, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade converting a penalty and Uchenna Kanu adding another in stoppage time, but it was not enough to prevent the upset. Temwa’s second goal proved decisive in securing the three points for the underdogs.

Nigeria, who reclaimed the continental crown last year with a dramatic 3-2 final win over hosts Morocco and arrived in Morocco as heavy favourites to extend their record, but struggled to break down a well-organised Malawi side for much of the match.

The Super Falcons controlled large portions of possession but were repeatedly caught out by the pace and clinical finishing of the Chawinga sisters Tabitha of Lyon and Temwa of Kansas City Current two of the most high-profile players in the African women’s game.

The result leaves Nigeria under immediate pressure in Group C, where they still face Zambia and Egypt. Malawi, meanwhile, have announced themselves as a force to be reckoned with on the continental stage after years of near-misses and internal challenges.