WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons begin title defence against debutants Malawi

Defending champions Nigeria will begin their quest to retain the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when they face tournament debutants Malawi at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday night.

The Super Falcons, Africa’s most successful women’s national team, will be aiming to make a strong statement in their opening Group A fixture after reclaiming the continental crown last year with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over hosts Morocco in the final.

Morocco, who are seeking a third consecutive WAFCON final appearance after finishing runners-up in the last two editions, began this year’s tournament in impressive fashion with a commanding 4-0 victory over Kenya on Sunday, a result that has further underlined the fierce competition awaiting the defending champions.

Tuesday’s encounter pits the experience of Nigeria against the ambition of Malawi, who are making their first-ever appearance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Despite their debut status, the Scorchers possess dangerous attacking threats in sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga, both capable of changing the outcome of a match within moments.

Under head coach Lovemore Fazili, Malawi have shown signs of progress despite mixed results in recent months. The Scorchers suffered friendly defeats to Morocco and Ghana but earned a creditable draw against Zambia before comfortably overcoming Angola in the final round of qualifiers.

The Malawian squad also boasts experienced players, including defenders Ireen Khumalo, Olivia Phikani and Benadetta Mkandawire, midfielders Rose Kadzere, Letticia Chinyamula and Faith Chinzimu, as well as forwards Vanessa Chikupira and Deborah Henry.

Speaking ahead of the match on Monday, Nigeria’s head coach, Justine Madugu, said his side would not underestimate the newcomers despite their status as defending champions.

“We have huge respect for all our opponents. Every team that qualifies for this tournament deserves commendation and a lot of respect. Yes, they are debutants, but they are a very good side. We don’t take anything for granted. Everybody is coming here with a purpose and a mission, so you don’t undermine or underestimate what anybody can do.

“We are here for the defence of the WAFCON trophy and the team is fully ready and set to go. We will stick to our game plan and our mission,” Madugu said.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade is expected to lead the Super Falcons, with Africa’s multiple award-winning goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie likely to start alongside defenders Osinachi Ohale, Michelle Alozie, Rofiat Imuran and Tosin Demehin.

In midfield, Deborah Abiodun and Halimatu Ayinde are expected to feature, while Esther Okoronkwo, Chinwendu Ihezuo and veteran striker Asisat Oshoala are tipped to lead the attack.

Nigeria also boasts considerable depth on the bench, with goalkeeper Comfort Erhabor, defenders Christy Ucheibe, Glory Ogbonna, Sikiratu Isa and Shukurat Oladipo, midfielders Toni Payne and Jennifer Echegini, and forwards Gift Monday, Omorinsola Babajide and Folashade Ijamilusi available as options.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 p.m. Nigerian time in Rabat.