Malawi Shock Nigeria in Thrilling WAFCON Opener as Fazili Hails Historic Victory
Malawi produced one of the biggest surprises in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations history after defeating 10-time champions Nigeria 3-2 in a dramatic Group C clash, with head coach Lovemore Fazili insisting his side earned every bit of the famous win.
The Scorchers made a dream start to their WAFCON campaign, stunning one of Africa’s most successful teams thanks to a brilliant display inspired by sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga.
Chawinga Sisters Lead Malawi to Famous Win
After an evenly contested first half ended goalless, Malawi found the breakthrough in the 73rd minute when Temwa Chawinga fired her side into the lead.
Just six minutes later, Tabitha Chawinga doubled the advantage to leave the Super Falcons facing a daunting task.
Nigeria pulled one back deep into stoppage time after captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty following a handball inside the box, raising hopes of a late comeback.
However, Malawi responded almost immediately as Temwa Chawinga completed her brace in the 95th minute to restore her team’s two-goal cushion.
Although Uchenna Kanu grabbed Nigeria’s second goal moments later, Malawi held firm through the closing stages to secure a memorable victory.
Fazili: We Deserved the Result
Speaking after the final whistle, Malawi coach Lovemore Fazili rejected suggestions that the result was a lucky escape, praising his players for executing the game plan to perfection.
“This victory was fully deserved. It was not a fluke because the players carried out everything we had planned. Today is a moment to celebrate what they have achieved,” Fazili said.
Despite the historic result, the Malawian coach urged his squad to remain focused, reminding them that tougher challenges still lie ahead.
“This win doesn’t mean we’ve won the tournament. We still have important matches against Egypt and Zambia, and we know there is a lot of work left to do.”
Malawi will face Egypt in their next Group C fixture before concluding the group stage against Zambia.
Madugu Admits Malawi Were Better
Nigeria head coach Justin Madugu accepted responsibility for the defeat, acknowledging that his side was punished for costly mistakes.
“I appreciate the effort the players gave throughout the match. They worked hard, but we made errors and Malawi took full advantage of them,” he said.
Madugu also dismissed any suggestion that the Super Falcons underestimated their opponents, insisting his technical team had prepared thoroughly for the encounter.
“We never overlooked Malawi. We’ve followed their progress and know they have quality players. Their development has been impressive, especially through regular competition in the COSAFA region.”
“Every team that qualifies for WAFCON deserves respect, and today’s result is another reminder of how competitive women’s football has become across Africa.”
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations also serves as the African qualifying tournament for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil, with the top four teams securing qualification for the global finals.
