Super Falcons Lose 3-2 to Malawi in WAFCON Opener

In their opening Group C match at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), the Super Falcons suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat to Malawi, with midfielder Esther Okoronkwo citing a slow start as a key factor in the loss. The defending champions were outperformed by Malawi, who were making their tournament debut, with Temwa Chawinga scoring twice and her sister Tabitha adding another goal.

The Super Falcons managed to respond with goals from Rasheedat Ajibade and substitute Uchenna Kanu but fell short of completing the comeback. Okoronkwo acknowledged that the team lacked the necessary intensity at the beginning of the match and emphasized the need to learn from the defeat to improve in their next game.

She also commented on a penalty appeal after being brought down in the box, expressing her belief that the incident warranted a review but chose not to dwell on it. The loss leaves the Super Falcons with significant work to do as they aim to defend their title.