Malawi Shocks Nigeria 3-2 in WAFCON 2026 Opener

In a stunning upset, Malawi's women's national football team, the Scorchers, defeated Nigeria's Super Falcons 3-2 in their opening match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2026 held in Rabat, Morocco. The Super Falcons, who are the defending champions and aiming for their 11th title, controlled possession but could not convert their chances.

The first half ended goalless, with Nigeria's goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie making crucial saves. In the second half, Malawi's captain Temwa Chawinga opened the scoring, followed by her sister Tabitha Chawinga doubling the lead.

Nigeria's captain Rasheedat Ajibade scored a penalty in stoppage time, but Malawi quickly restored their two-goal advantage with Temwa's second goal. Uchenna Kanu scored late for Nigeria, but it was not enough.

This defeat marks Nigeria's first loss to a debutant in WAFCON history and poses an early challenge in their title defense, while Malawi boosts their chances of advancing in Group C.