Malawi announced their arrival on the biggest stage of African women’s football in spectacular fashion on Tuesday night, pulling off a sensational 3-2 victory over defending champions Nigeria in their opening Group C match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
Playing in their maiden WAFCON tournament, the Scorchers produced a fearless display at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat to hand the Super Falcons their first-ever defeat against a tournament debutant.
The victory was inspired by the brilliant Chawinga sisters, with Temwa Chawinga scoring twice and Tabita Chawinga adding another as Malawi secured one of the most memorable wins in the competition’s history.
Nigeria dominated possession throughout the first half, but Malawi remained organised defensively and frustrated the nine-time African champions, ensuring the game stayed goalless at the interval.
The Scorchers emerged from the break with renewed confidence and attacking purpose. Although they had an early second-half goal ruled out for offside, they refused to be discouraged.
Their persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when Ireen Khumalo delivered a perfectly weighted pass for Temwa Chawinga, who calmly slotted home to give Malawi a deserved lead.
Just six minutes later, Malawi struck again. Sabina Thom provided the assist, and Tabita Chawinga made no mistake with the finish to double the advantage and leave the defending champions reeling.
Nigeria fought back in stoppage time after captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty to reduce the deficit. However, Temwa Chawinga responded almost immediately, completing her brace with a composed finish to restore Malawi’s two-goal cushion.
Uchenna Kanu scored deep into added time to make it 3-2, but Malawi held their nerve in the closing moments to seal a famous victory.
The result marks a dream start to Malawi’s WAFCON campaign and sends a strong message to the rest of the tournament, while Nigeria will be eager to bounce back after suffering a rare and unexpected defeat in their title defence.
