MALAWI STUN SUPER FALCONS 3-2 IN HISTORIC WAFCON UPSET
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
Nigeria’s bid for a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title suffered an early setback on Tuesday as tournament debutants Malawi claimed a stunning 3-2 victory over the defending champions in their Group C opener.
The Scorchers delivered an impressive performance to secure a historic win against the 10-time African champions, marking one of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history.
After a goalless first half, Malawi broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute through Temwa Chawinga. Captain Tabitha Chawinga doubled the lead six minutes later to put Nigeria under immense pressure.
The Super Falcons pulled one back in the second minute of stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty, briefly raising hopes of a comeback.
However, Temwa Chawinga struck again three minutes later to restore Malawi’s two-goal advantage and all but seal the victory.
Substitute Uchenna Kanu scored deep into stoppage time to reduce the deficit to 3-2, but Nigeria ran out of time as Malawi held on for a memorable victory.
The defeat leaves the Super Falcons needing a positive result in their next Group C match to revive their campaign, while Malawi’s dream start significantly boosts their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
Ahead of the match, Malawi head coach Lovemore Fazili expressed confidence in his team’s ability to cause an upset, insisting they had not travelled to the tournament as underdogs.
Captain Tabitha Chawinga also urged her teammates to play without fear, acknowledging Nigeria’s pedigree while stressing that Malawi had the quality to compete on equal terms.
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