It was a nightmarish start to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title defense as debutants Malawi stunned Nigeria to a 3-2 victory in their Group C opener in Rabat.
After a frustrating first half where the nine-time champions couldn’t register a single shot on target despite enjoying all the possession, the Malawian side carried a constant threat on the counter as the Chawinga sisters were causing havoc for the Falcons’ defense.
The deadlock broke in the 73rd minute as Temwa Chawinga controlled a long ball and went past Nigeria’s goalie, Chiamaka Nnadozie, to find the back of the net, securing a first in Malawian WAFCON history.
Four minutes later, Nigeria were caught out again, and their skipper, Tabitha Chawinga, rounded Nnadozie again to extend the lead.
Nigeria pulled one back late on in the 89th minute after Rasheedat Ajibade converted a spot-kick following Rose Alufandika’s handball. Yet, on the dot of time, Temwa Chawinga added her second goal for the Malawians before Nigeria had Uchenna Kanu grab another one to make it the final scoreline.
The loss put Nigerian women at the bottom of Group C ahead of the big game between the Falcons and Zambia in their next fixture.
