National Teams
WAFCON 2026: Oshoala urges Nigeria to bounce back after shock Malawi defeat
Nigeria forward Asisat Oshoala has described Nigeria’s shocking 3-2 defeat to tournament debutants Malawi in their opening match of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) as a “wake-up call,” insisting the defending champions must quickly regroup as they pursue a record-extending 11th continental title.
Nigeria’s title defence got off to a disappointing start in Rabat as the Scorchers produced one of the biggest upsets in WAFCON history, with sisters Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga inspiring the Southern Africans to a memorable victory over the 10-time African champions.
Temwa Chawinga opened the scoring before Tabitha doubled Malawi’s advantage, while Temwa added her second of the evening to put the debutants in a commanding 3-1 lead. The Super Falcons mounted a late fightback through Rasheedat Ajibade’s penalty and Uchenna Kanu’s stoppage-time goal, but it proved too little, too late.
Reacting after the defeat, Oshoala admitted the result highlighted the rapid progress being made by teams across the continent, warning that Nigeria can no longer afford to underestimate any opponent.
“Smaller nations are closing the gap, but it’s also a wake-up call for Nigeria. We have to understand that other teams want to win this trophy as well,” Oshoala said.
Despite the disappointing result, the six-time CAF African Women’s Player of the Year believes the Super Falcons still have enough time to recover and achieve their objectives in Morocco.
“It’s still a long competition, and all we need to do is prepare well for the next game.”
The former Barcelona striker also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the team, stressing that qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup remains at stake.
“We need the support of all Nigerians right now. A World Cup ticket is at stake, to be honest. This is the time we really need everyone to support the Super Falcons.”
Oshoala concluded by apologising to Nigerian fans for the unexpected defeat.
“We are sorry for losing the opening game to Malawi.”
The Super Falcons now face an uphill task in Group C, with a crucial clash against Zambia on Saturday before concluding the group stage against Egypt on August 5.
Earlier on Tuesday, Zambia announced themselves as serious title contenders with a commanding 6-0 victory over Egypt, leaving Nigeria under pressure to respond in their next outing and keep their hopes of defending the WAFCON title alive.
