WAFCON 2026: Malawi stun Nigeria with 3-2 win in historic upset

Malawi produced one of the biggest upsets in Women’s Africa Cup of Nations history as the tournament debutants stunned defending champions Nigeria 3-2 in their Group C opener on Tuesday.

Inspired by the Chawinga sisters, the Scorchers overturned the odds at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat to hand the 10-time African champions their first-ever WAFCON defeat against a debutant nation.

Temwa Chawinga scored twice, while sister Tabita Chawinga also found the net as Malawi secured a famous victory despite a late Nigerian fightback.

Malawi frustrate champions before striking

Nigeria dominated possession during a goalless first half but struggled to break down a disciplined Malawi side determined to make an impression on their tournament debut.

The Scorchers remained compact in defence and looked dangerous on the counter-attack, with the pace of Temwa and Tabita Chawinga posing a constant threat.

Their resilience ensured the teams went into the break level, with belief growing among the newcomers that a famous result was within reach.

Chawinga sisters seize the moment

Malawi made the breakthrough in the 73rd minute when Temwa Chawinga finished confidently after being picked out by Ireen Khumalo.

The Scorchers doubled their advantage just six minutes later as Tabita Chawinga converted Sabina Thom’s pass to leave the defending champions on the brink of a stunning defeat.

Nigeria found a lifeline in the second minute of stoppage time when captain Rasheedat Ajibade calmly converted a penalty to reduce the deficit.

However, Malawi responded almost immediately. Benadetta Mkandawire set up Temwa Chawinga, who scored her second goal of the night in the fifth minute of added time to restore her side’s two-goal cushion.

Nigeria’s late rally falls short

The Super Falcons continued to press and Uchenna Kanu scored deep into stoppage time to make it 3-2, setting up a nervy finish.

But Malawi held firm through the closing moments to seal a landmark victory that will rank among the greatest results in the country’s football history.

The defeat also dealt an early blow to Nigeria’s bid for an 11th continental title, while Malawi announced themselves on Africa’s biggest women’s football stage with a memorable and deserved triumph.