Super Falcons midfielder Esther Okoronkwo has admitted that Nigeria’s sluggish start played a major role in their shocking 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening Group C match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.
The defending African champions went into the encounter as overwhelming favourites but were caught off guard by a determined Malawi side inspired by sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga.
Temwa Chawinga struck twice, while Tabitha added the third as the Scorchers secured a famous victory in their first-ever WAFCON appearance, handing Nigeria an unexpected setback in their title defence.
Nigeria attempted to fight back after falling behind, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade pulling one back before substitute Uchenna Kanu added a second goal late in the game. However, the Super Falcons could not find the equaliser as Malawi held on for a memorable win.
Reacting after the match, Okoronkwo acknowledged that Nigeria’s slow start proved costly, stressing that the team must learn from the defeat and improve ahead of their remaining Group C fixtures.
The loss leaves the Super Falcons under pressure as they seek to revive their campaign and keep their hopes of retaining the continental title alive.
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