Malawi made a sensational statement in their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations debut by defeating title-holders Nigeria 3-2. While the experienced Super Falcons were anticipated to secure an easy victory, the Malawian side proved resilient throughout the initial half, keeping the game scoreless.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half when sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga struck twice in six minutes. Temwa broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute, followed by Tabitha extending the lead shortly after. Although Rasheedat Ajibade pulled one back for Nigeria from a penalty kick in the 90th minute, Malawi responded immediately. A defensive error allowed Temwa to lob goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, re-establishing a two-goal cushion. Uchenna Kanu added a late goal during stoppage time, but it was not enough to prevent the upset.
Nigeria now prepares for a difficult fixture against Zambia, who entered the tournament with an emphatic 6-0 win over Egypt.
