Nigeria’s bid for an unprecedented 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title began with a surprise defeat on Tuesday as debutants Malawi claimed a memorable 3-2 victory in their Group C opener.
Making their first appearance at the continental tournament, the Scorchers produced one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history by overcoming the reigning champions, who entered the competition as favourites to retain their crown.
The opening period offered few clear-cut opportunities, with both teams matching each other in a tightly contested contest. But the game changed after the break as Malawi found another level.
Temwa Chawinga broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute, finishing clinically to put the tournament newcomers ahead. Six minutes later, her sister and team captain, Tabitha Chawinga, doubled the advantage, leaving the Super Falcons facing an uphill battle.
Nigeria were handed a lifeline in second-half stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted from the penalty spot in the 90+2nd minute, raising hopes of a dramatic comeback.
Those hopes lasted only moments.
Temwa Chawinga struck again in the 90+5th minute to restore Malawi’s two-goal cushion, effectively sealing one of the most famous victories in the country’s football history.
Substitute Uchenna Kanu ensured a tense finish by scoring in the ninth minute of added time, but Nigeria were unable to find a third goal before the final whistle as Malawi celebrated a historic triumph.
The defeat leaves the Super Falcons under pressure to respond in their next Group C fixture if they are to keep their hopes of defending the title alive.
For Malawi, the result represents a dream start to life at WAFCON and puts them in a strong position in the race for a place in the knockout stage.
The confidence within the Malawi camp had been evident before kick-off.
Head coach Lovemore Fazili insisted his players were prepared to challenge one of Africa’s traditional powerhouses.
“Getting this far means that we are ready for this match.
“People may underestimate us but we are a good team, capable of causing an upset. We are not resigned victims.”
Captain Tabitha Chawinga also dismissed any suggestion that her side would be intimidated by the 10-time African champions.
“It was my dream to play in the WAFCON. The time has come. We know Nigeria’s worth.
“They are a great nation but we must focus on ourselves. Our players need to compete without any inferiority complex,” she stated before the game.
Those words proved prophetic as Malawi delivered a fearless performance to earn a famous victory, while Nigeria must now regroup quickly to avoid an early exit from the tournament.
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