Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga urges fearless approach against Nigeria in WAFCON debut

Malawi captain Tabitha Chawinga says the Scorchers must put aside any sense of inferiority and face holders Nigeria with courage when they make their first-ever appearance at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The tournament debutants open their WAFCON campaign against the record 10-time African champions in a daunting Group C fixture at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday night, with kick-off set for 21:00 Nigeria time.

Nigeria’s pedigree and status as defending champions have made the Super Falcons overwhelming favourites for the tie, setting up a classic David versus Goliath meeting to begin Malawi’s journey at the continental showpiece.

‘We must not feel inferior’

Chawinga, who will lead Malawi out for their historic first match at the finals, insisted that the team must not be overawed by the occasion or by their illustrious opponents.

“It was my dream to play in the WAFCON. The time has come. We know Nigeria’s worth,” Chawinga was quoted by CAFonline.

“They are a great nation but we must focus on ourselves. Our players need to compete without any inferiority complex.”

The forward’s message comes as Malawi prepare to face one of the most successful sides in women’s football on the continent, with Nigeria having lifted the WAFCON trophy on 10 occasions.

Historic night for Malawi

Tuesday’s match in Rabat will mark Malawi’s first appearance at a Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals, placing additional significance on an already high-profile encounter.

The Scorchers secured qualification for the 2026 edition to earn their debut on the continental stage, and now begin their campaign by taking on the tournament’s most decorated team.

While Nigeria’s experience and track record have shaped expectations ahead of the Group C clash, Chawinga has framed the fixture as an opportunity for Malawi’s players to test themselves at the highest level in Africa without being intimidated.

Her comments echo the determined tone already set within the camp, with the emphasis on self-belief and competing on equal terms despite the gap in history and achievements between the two nations.

Context of the challenge

Nigeria arrive at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as reigning champions, adding to their long-established reputation as the dominant force in African women’s football.

Malawi, by contrast, are stepping into the finals for the first time and will be viewed as underdogs throughout the group phase, particularly against opponents with Nigeria’s stature.

However, Chawinga’s focus on mentality underlines Malawi’s intention to approach their opening match as more than just an occasion, but as a competitive contest in which they aim to challenge the Super Falcons from the outset.

The Group C tie at Al Madina Stadium will therefore not only launch Malawi’s debut campaign but also provide an early test of the captain’s call for courage and confidence on one of the biggest nights in the team’s history.