WAFCON: MALAWI SHOCKS NIGERIA
By: Gyang Dakwo
Nigeria’s quest for an 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title suffered an early setback on Tuesday after the Super Falcons were stunned 3 – 2 by tournament debutants Malawi in their Group C opener in Rabat.
The result ranks among the biggest surprises in the history of the competition, with the 10-time African champions falling to a Malawi side playing at the continental finals for the first time.
The Super Falcons dominated possession for long periods in the first half but found it difficult to break down a disciplined Malawian defence. Malawi remained organised at the back and threatened on the counterattack as both teams went into the break without a goal.
Nigeria’s resistance was finally broken in the 73rd minute when Temwa Chawinga put Malawi ahead with a clinical finish. The Super Falcons’ problems deepened six minutes later as Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga doubled the lead.
The defending champions fought back in the closing stages and reduced the deficit in the 90th minute when captain Rasheedat Ajibade converted a penalty following a handball by Malawi defender Bernadetta Mkandawire.
Any hopes of a comeback suffered another blow in stoppage time when Temwa Chawinga scored her second goal of the match to restore Malawi’s two-goal advantage.
Although Uchenna Kanu gave Nigeria renewed hope in the 98th minute after capitalising on a defensive error, Malawi held on to secure a famous victory.
The defeat leaves the Super Falcons under pressure ahead of their remaining Group C matches as they seek to keep alive their hopes of winning a record-extending 11th continental title.
Malawi moved to three points and sit second in the group behind Zambia, who began their campaign with a 6 – 0 victory over Egypt. Nigeria and Egypt are yet to earn a point.
The Super Falcons play Zambia next on Saturday, August 1.
