Nigeria Begin WAFCON Title Defence Against Malawi in Group C Opener

Posted : 28 July 2026

Defending champions Nigeria will open their 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign against Malawi in a Group C clash on Tuesday in Rabat, Morocco. The Super Falcons are aiming for a winning start as they pursue a record-extending 11th continental title.

Nigeria enters the tournament with confidence after reclaiming the WAFCON crown in Morocco last year. The Super Falcons produced a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat hosts Morocco 3-2 in the final, securing another African title and reaffirming their dominance in women's football on the continent.

Head coach Justine Madugu leads a squad packed with experience and quality. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to inspire the team alongside goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, six-time African Women's Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, Michelle Alozie, Christy Ucheibe, Jennifer Echegini, Toni Payne, Esther Okoronkwo, Gift Monday and Deborah Abiodun.

Nigeria will, however, be without defender Ashleigh Plumptre, who is still recovering from a long-term injury. The squad received a boost ahead of the tournament after Gift Monday and Deborah Abiodun joined the team following earlier travel delays. The Super Falcons also head into the competition on the back of a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their final warm-up match.

The Super Falcons have been drawn in a competitive Group C alongside Zambia, Egypt and Malawi. Victory over the Scorchers would strengthen Nigeria's chances of reaching the knockout stage before tougher fixtures against Zambia and Egypt. The tournament also serves as a qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, with the four semi-finalists earning automatic qualification.

Nigeria and Malawi have met only twice at senior level. Both matches came during the qualifiers for the 2014 African Women's Championship. The first encounter in Blantyre ended in a 1-1 draw before Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory in Abuja. The Super Falcons remain unbeaten against Malawi with one win and one draw.

Ajibade's creativity and leadership will be central to Nigeria's attacking approach, while Nnadozie's consistency in goal provides one of the team's biggest strengths. Oshoala's experience and goalscoring record make her another key player, while Jennifer Echegini is expected to dictate play from midfield.

Malawi will rely heavily on sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga. Temwa, who plays for Kansas City Current, is known for her pace and finishing, while Olympique Lyonnais forward Tabitha brings creativity and experience. Their partnership will be Nigeria's biggest defensive challenge as the Scorchers make their WAFCON debut.

The match kicks off at 9:00 p.m. Nigerian time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat and will be broadcast live on AfroSport and SuperSport.

Nigeria Begin WAFCON Title Defence Against Malawi in Group C Opener

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