Nigeria’s bid to secure a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title suffered an unexpected setback on Tuesday as tournament newcomers Malawi stunned the defending champions with a dramatic 3-2 victory in their Group C opening match.
The Scorchers delivered a resilient performance to hand the 10-time African champions a disappointing start to the defence of their continental crown.
Following a tightly contested first half that ended goalless, Malawi took the lead in the 73rd minute through Temwa Chawinga. Captain Tabitha Chawinga doubled the advantage six minutes later, putting the Super Falcons under immense pressure.
Nigeria fought back in stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty in the 92nd minute to reduce the deficit and spark hopes of a late comeback.
However, those hopes were quickly dashed as Temwa Chawinga completed her brace three minutes later, restoring Malawi’s two-goal lead and effectively sealing a memorable victory.
Substitute Uchenna Kanu netted in the ninth minute of added time to make it 3-2, but the Super Falcons ran out of time as Malawi held firm to record one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history.
