“Don’t Beat Us 5-0” — Malawi Captain Tabitha Chawinga Jokes with Oshoala Ahead of Super Falcons Clash

Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga has shared a light-hearted moment with Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala ahead of their meeting at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), humorously pleading with the Super Falcons not to hand her side a heavy defeat.

The playful exchange took place during a pre-tournament panel featuring some of Africa’s top women’s football stars, including Ghana’s Cynthia Konlan and Egypt’s Nadine Ghazi. The interaction quickly gained traction on social media as fans enjoyed the friendly banter between two of the continent’s biggest names.

Looking ahead to Nigeria’s Group C opener against Malawi, Oshoala jokingly turned her attention to the Chawinga sisters, Tabitha and Temwa.

“Calm down, sisters. You and Temwa need to calm down,” Oshoala said with a smile.

Chawinga responded in the same cheerful spirit, acknowledging Nigeria’s reputation while making a humorous request.

“Super Falcons need to calm down. Don’t give us 5-0, please. 1-0 is enough,” she joked.

The exchange drew laughter from fellow panellists and highlighted the mutual respect between two of Africa’s finest footballers ahead of the continental showpiece.

Despite the jokes, Nigeria remain the team to beat. The Super Falcons head into the tournament as defending champions and the most successful side in WAFCON history, boasting a record 10 continental titles. They will be aiming to extend that dominance by lifting an unprecedented 11th crown.

Malawi, meanwhile, will be looking to spring a surprise. With sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga leading the attack, the Scorchers have the firepower to challenge some of the continent’s biggest teams and will be eager to make their mark in a competitive Group C.

Nigeria begin their title defence against Malawi on July 28 before facing Zambia and Egypt, with all of their group-stage fixtures set to be played in Rabat, Morocco.

While the friendly exchange has added excitement to the build-up, both teams know the smiles will give way to fierce competition once the tournament gets underway, with valuable points and a place in the knockout stage on the line.